The Cross River State Police Command has arrested three suspects linked with the ongoing chieftaincy crisis in Iko_Esai village, Akamkpa Local Government Area.

The suspects, identified as Chief Obrt Obia, Chief Elijah Okomison, and Clement Akposi, will be charged with murder, arson, malicious damage, and conspiracy.

Police spokesman, SP Ugbo Irene, in a statement, said the crisis escalated when one Christian Abakun, aged 30, was tragically shot and killed by Sunday David, a fellow indigene, using a locally made pistol. Two others were injured and are currently receiving medical treatment.

Irene added that eight buildings, two (2) vehicles, and ten (10) motorcycles were also destroyed in the violence.

The casefile and suspects have been transferred to the State Criminal Investigations Department (SCID), Calabar.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Gyogon Augustine Grimah, has assured the public that a thorough investigation will be conducted, with all involved parties facing prosecution.

The Commissioner urged residents of Iko-Esai and Akamkpa Local Government indigene to provide any relevant information and to report to the nearest police station or the Police Command Headquarters in Calabar.

He assured that the Police Command will continue to work alongside other agencies to restore peace in the community.