Gunshots As Militants Storm Centre, Gun Down Security

Militants attacked the Afokang Federal Prison in Cross River State, storming the facility from nearby Calabar creeks and killing a security guard stationed at the main gate. The assailants managed to seize the guard’s weapon during the attack, which took place late in the evening.

According to sources, the militants did not breach the prison yard; their operation was limited to the main gate. Some speculate that the incident might be linked to complaints about reduced food rations for inmates, leading to dissatisfaction among the prisoners.

Following the attack, the state comptroller of the prison called for an emergency meeting at the Correctional Centre’s head office opposite Millennium Park, Calabar. A resident of the area reported hearing gunshots around 9pm, prompting panic among the locals. The attackers fled the scene after the incident, leaving behind a deceased officer.

The Public Relations Officer of the Cross River State Command of the Nigerian Correctional Service, DSC Effanga Etim, confirmed the attack. He assured that an official statement would be released soon to provide further details on the incident.