DSS Nabs Suspected Killers of Top Neurologist in Cross River
The Department of State Services (DSS) has arrested key members of the kidnapping syndicate responsible for the abduction and murder of renowned neurologist, Professor Ekanem Philip Ephraim, a case that threw the medical community into mourning and sparked statewide protests.
The agency confirmed the breakthrough in a statement issued on Friday, announcing that the prime suspect, Patrick Essien Etim, aged 23, and his alleged accomplice, Bassey Antiha Asuquo, 40, were apprehended on December 27, 2025, in Cross River State.
According to the DSS, both suspects were arrested inside a medical facility in Calabar, where they were reportedly finalizing plans to kidnap another senior medical professional. The security agency said the arrests came after months of intelligence gathering and covert surveillance.
Investigations revealed that the gang had been on the radar of security operatives since July 2023, when Professor Ephraim was abducted by armed men who disguised themselves as patients at her private clinic in Calabar.
DSS officials said the suspects confessed to abducting and killing the professor, even after allegedly receiving multiple ransom payments from her family. Their confession also linked them to other kidnapping operations and acts of vandalism involving electricity installations in the state.
Further intelligence led to the arrest of an additional suspect, Isaac Ekpeyong, who was allegedly involved in the wider criminal network.
Professor Ephraim’s abduction and subsequent murder had earlier triggered widespread outrage. The Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) in Cross River State embarked on an indefinite strike, shutting down public and private hospitals for more than a week in protest of rising insecurity targeting health workers.
The incident also sparked public demonstrations, with doctors demanding immediate action from security agencies.
The DSS described the latest arrests as a “major operational success” and reiterated its readiness to dismantle criminal syndicates across the country.
We remain committed to restoring public safety and ensuring justice for victims and their families,” the agency said.
The suspects are currently undergoing further interrogation, and the DSS has assured that additional updates will be communicated as investigations continue.
