Police arrest man over arson in Cross River

The police in Cross River State have arrested a 41-year-old man, Bassey Ekpo, for allegedly setting a house ablaze at 8 Miles in Calabar, the state capital.

The command’s spokesperson, Sunday Eitokpah, disclosed this in a statement on Saturday.

According to him, the incident was reported on Friday at the Ikot Omin Police Division by the occupant of the building, Ekemini Stephen.

Eitokpah said neighbours helped apprehend Ekpo and handed him over to the police.

He added that the suspect allegedly told investigators during preliminary questioning that his 61-year-old mother had sent him to carry out the act.

The woman, whose identity was not disclosed, is reportedly at large and has been identified by the police as the alleged instigator.

“With the assistance of neighbours, the suspect was apprehended and brought to the Police Station. During preliminary questioning, he allegedly claimed that he was sent by his 61-year-old mother, who is currently at large and has been named as the alleged instigator,” the statement said.

The spokesperson said police operatives had visited the scene and taken photographs as part of the evidence-gathering process.

He added that the investigation was ongoing to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and determine whether other persons were involved.

The command assured residents that anyone found culpable would be prosecuted in accordance with the law.