A young man has been stabbed to death in Calabar, Cross River State, in what authorities and residents describe as a surge in violence linked to the resurgence of street gangs in the city. The tragic incident occurred on Monday morning along Mary Slessor Road, following a dispute with a suspected gang member. The victim, whose identity has not been disclosed, was attacked with a knife and rushed to the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH) for emergency treatment. Despite medical efforts, he succumbed to his injuries and was later confirmed dead by hospital doctors.
ASP Sunday Akata, the Police Public Relations Officer for the Cross River State Command, confirmed the details of the attack. She stated that the suspect had tracked and pursued the victim before launching the stabbing. The victim’s body has since been deposited at the General Hospital mortuary for preservation and autopsy. Akata also revealed that the suspect has been arrested and the case handed over to the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID) for further investigation.
This killing follows another disturbing incident in Calabar just days earlier, which sparked widespread outrage among residents. A young woman was allegedly lured to an apartment by a suspect through the help of his girlfriend, where she was reportedly murdered. Community members claimed the suspect attempted to dispose of parts of her body before being apprehended by local vigilantes and handed over to security operatives. However, police stated that no corpse was recovered from the apartment, though bloodstains were found during the investigation.
The back-to-back violent crimes have raised alarm among Calabar residents, who are increasingly concerned about the return of street gangs known locally as the “Skolombo Boys.” These groups, primarily composed of minors and teenagers, are said to operate from abandoned buildings, tunnels, and public parks across the city. Residents accuse them of carrying out violent attacks, robberies, and other criminal acts, especially during nighttime hours.
The recent spate of violence has intensified calls for stronger security measures and youth intervention programs in the state. With crime rates appearing to rise, many are urging both state and federal authorities to take urgent action to restore peace and protect citizens. The situation underscores the growing challenge of urban insecurity in Nigeria’s southeastern region, where youth unemployment and lack of structured recreation are often cited as root causes of gang activity.
As investigations continue, the police have assured the public that they are committed to bringing all perpetrators to justice. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for coordinated efforts between law enforcement, local communities, and government agencies to address the underlying issues fueling youth violence in Calabar and beyond.
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