Child found at Catholic Church in Calabar, police seek public assistance to locate parents

Cityscope, Crime Diary

CALABAR, NIGERIA, April 6, 2026 (NPA) — The Cross River State Police Command has announced that a yet-to-be-identified child was found on Monday, April 6, 2026, at about 08:30 hours within the premises of St. Bernard Catholic Church in the Akim area of the state.

According to a statement issued by ASP Eitokpah Sunday, Police Public Relations Officer of the Command, the child was discovered wandering inside the church compound by a security guard, who subsequently brought him to the police. Efforts to obtain useful information from the child were unsuccessful, as he could not provide his name, address, or details of his parents or guardians.

Preliminary findings suggest that the child may have either been abandoned or lost his way.

“The child is currently in protective custody at Akim Police Station, where adequate care and safety measures have been put in place pending identification,” the police said.

The Command reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and property, particularly vulnerable members of society. It appealed to members of the public who may have information about any missing child, or who can assist in identifying the child or locating his parents or guardians, to report to Akim Police Station or contact the following numbers:

• DPO: 08067339179
• PPRO: 07067977330
• Or visit the nearest police station.

Police authorities assured that all necessary measures are being taken to ensure the child’s safety while efforts continue to trace his family.