The Cross River State Police Command has arrested a 29-year-old man, Abashi John, over the alleged abduction of an 11-year-old boy in Edor community, Ikom Local Government Area.
According to the police, the incident was reported on October 5, 2026, by the boy’s father, Raphael Eyo, aged 57.
The father alleged that the suspect took his son under the pretext of helping him get home safely. However, the child subsequently went missing.
When contacted, the suspect allegedly told the father that he had dropped the boy in front of his residence.
The following day, the father and some community members reportedly visited the suspect’s residence, where the boy was found in the suspect’s room with an injury to his head.
The police said the circumstances surrounding the child’s injury remain under investigation.
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Following his arrest, the suspect was initially taken to the Edor Police Outpost before being transferred to the Ikom Police Division for further investigation. He remains in custody pending the outcome of the investigation.
The police added that arrangements were being made to address the child’s welfare and medical needs in consultation with his parent or guardian.
The Commissioner of Police, Ajo Geoffrey Ordue, reaffirmed the command’s commitment to protecting children and other vulnerable persons. He urged parents and guardians to remain vigilant and promptly report missing children or suspicious activities to the nearest police station.
The command also warned the public against speculation, vigilantism and actions that could interfere with the investigation.
Police emphasised that the suspect remains presumed innocent unless proven guilty by a court of competent jurisdiction.
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