DSS Arrests Suspected Killers of Neurology Professor in Cross River

By Our Correspondent

Operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) have arrested suspects linked to the abduction and killing of a Professor of Neurology, Dr. Ekanem Philip Ephraim, nearly two years after the crime was committed in Cross River State.

A security source confirmed the development to Channels Television on Monday, identifying the alleged leader of the gang as 24-year-old Patrick Essien Etim, alongside his accomplice, Bassey Antiha Asuquo, aged 40.

According to the source, the suspects were apprehended on December 27, 2025, at a medical facility in Cross River State while allegedly planning to kidnap another prominent medical practitioner.

The source disclosed that the DSS had been tracking the criminal network since July 2023, when gunmen posing as patients abducted Professor Ephraim from her private clinic.

The suspects were said to have 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. With this arrest, her family and loved ones may finally have peace and the closure they deserve,” the source said.

The source added that the breakthrough highlights the DSS’s renewed commitment to covert operations and efforts aimed at restoring public safety nationwide.

Further investigations reportedly revealed that the suspects were involved in other criminal activities, including kidnapping additional victims and vandalising electricity cables.

Another suspect, identified as Isaac Ekpeyong, was also arrested in connection with the crimes.

Professor Ephraim was abducted on July 13, 2023, by unknown gunmen who allegedly disguised themselves as patients at her private clinic along Atimbo Road in Calabar.

Her abduction sparked widespread outrage across Cross River State, prompting the state chapter of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) to embark on an indefinite strike.

The industrial action crippled healthcare services in the state for more than a week as doctors demanded her rescue and improved security for medical professionals.

The DSS is expected to conclude investigations and arraign the suspects accordingly.