The Cross River State Police Command has dismissed social media reports suggesting the presence of an unidentified group camping along Mary Slessor Avenue in Calabar, describing those spotted as mostly street children and vulnerable youths.
In a statement issued by Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eitokpah Akata, on Friday, the command said a patrol team was immediately deployed to the area opposite the Calabar Zoo following circulating reports.
“Findings from the investigation revealed that the individuals in question are not an unidentified group as suggested. Rather, they are predominantly street children and vulnerable youths, most of whom are indigenes of Cross River State, with a few from neighbouring states, who have left their homes due to factors including lack of parental care, neglect, and other social challenges,” the statement read.
Representatives of Street Aid Nigeria, a non-governmental organisation working with vulnerable children, were present during the police visit and confirmed ongoing efforts to sensitise and reunite the children with their families.
“Further inquiries established that the children are known to humanitarian organisations and concerned individuals who regularly provide them with food, clothing, and other forms of support. During the visit, representatives of Street Aid Nigeria, a non-governmental organisation working with vulnerable children, were present and confirmed ongoing efforts to sensitise and reunite the affected children with their families,” the police said.
The command appreciated the vigilance of concerned citizens whose observations prompted the timely verification. It emphasised that public cooperation remains vital to effective policing and urged residents to continue reporting suspicious activities through appropriate channels.
While no security threat was identified, the police said they would continue to monitor the area and collaborate with relevant stakeholders, humanitarian organisations, and state government agencies to ensure public safety and support efforts aimed at addressing the welfare needs of the affected children.
“The Cross River State Police Command remains committed to the protection of lives and property and to fostering a safe, secure, and inclusive environment for all residents of the state,” the statement concluded.
