Police Address Viral TikTok Allegation, Arrest Suspect in Calabar Metropolis
The Cross River State Police Command has dismissed allegations of unlawful arrest following a viral TikTok video that accused officers of attempting to break into a residence in Calabar Metropolis without justification.
Speaking at the Command headquarters on Tuesday, the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Sunday Eitokpah, clarified that the operation carried out on February 28, 2026, was based on credible intelligence and executed with proper legal authorization.
According to ASP Eitokpah, the video— which garnered over 2,000 views — claimed that unidentified police officers stormed a residence located around Army Junction, just off the highway in Calabar Metropolis, to effect an unlawful arrest.
“I received the link to the live broadcast and joined the session to observe the situation firsthand,” Eitokpah explained.
“Upon verification, I confirmed that the officers involved were members of the Command Surveillance Team. They were acting on intelligence reports concerning a suspect allegedly involved in cyberbullying, impersonation, illicit drug activities, and other related offenses.”
He stated that the officers presented duly signed arrest and search warrants upon arrival at the residence. However, occupants of the apartment reportedly refused to grant them access to carry out the lawful operation.
“Despite initial resistance, our men conducted the operation professionally and effected the arrest. Several items were recovered from the apartment,” he added.
Following the arrest, police conducted an interview with the suspect, identified as 24-year-old Inapu Divine. During questioning, the suspect confirmed that the recovered items — including a laptop, tablet, mobile phones, used smoking materials, tobacco products, and other accessories — were found in his residence.
When asked about ownership of the apartment, the suspect stated that the property was rented by his father, although he currently resides there.
The Command emphasized that its operations are guided strictly by intelligence, petitions, and reasonable suspicion, stressing that officers do not carry out arrests without lawful backing.
ASP Eitokpah used the opportunity to caution members of the public against spreading misinformation or inciting narratives that may erode public trust in law enforcement.
“The police act on credible information before embarking on any arrest. Whenever we are out on an operation, there is a reason and a legal basis for it,” he said.
“We urge members of the public to cooperate with law enforcement agencies. If you see something, say something.”
