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BREAKING: Two Years after murder, DSS nabs gang behind killing of Prof. Ekanem in Calabar
Operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) have arrested the suspected killers of Professor Ekanem Philip Ephraim, a Professor of Neurology who was abducted and murdered nearly two years ago in Cross River State.
A credible security source confirmed the arrest to Channels Television on Monday, identifying the alleged gang leader as Patrick Essien Etim, 24, and his accomplice, Bassey Antiha Asuquo, 40.
The suspects were apprehended on December 27 at a medical facility in Cross River State, where they were reportedly planning to kidnap another prominent medical practitioner.
According to the source, the DSS had been discreetly tracking the kidnapping syndicate since July 2023, when gunmen posing as patients abducted Professor Ephraim from her private clinic along Atimbo Road, Calabar.
The suspects reportedly confessed to the crime, admitting that they killed the professor after collecting multiple ransom payments from her family.
“It has been two years of torment for her loved ones, not knowing what happened to the Professor,” the source said.
“With this arrest, her family and loved ones will finally have some peace and the much-needed closure they deserve.”
The source described the arrest as a major breakthrough, noting that it reflects the DSS’s renewed commitment to covert intelligence operations and the restoration of public safety.
“This breakthrough underscores the commitment of the DSS in reverting to covertness in its operations and restoring public safety across the country,” the source added.
Investigations also revealed that the suspects were involved in other criminal activities, including kidnapping of additional victims and vandalisation of electricity cables. Another suspect, Isaac Ekpeyong, was also arrested in connection with the gang’s operations.
Professor Ephraim was abducted on July 13, 2023, by gunmen who disguised themselves as patients at her private clinic. Her disappearance sparked widespread outrage across Cross River State.
The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Cross River chapter, organised protests and embarked on an indefinite strike, paralysing healthcare services for over a week while demanding urgent government action to rescue the professor.
The DSS is expected to conclude investigations before arraigning the suspects in court.
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