Man Arrested for Beating and Detaining Girlfriend in Cross River

On April 12, 2026, the Cross River State Police Command arrested 27-year-old Desir Desey for allegedly assaulting and unlawfully detaining his girlfriend, Simpli Livina, in Calabar. The police received a distress report at 3:00 PM, indicating that Livina had not returned home after visiting Desey the previous day.

At 10:35 PM, she sent a message with a photograph showing visible bruises, indicating she was being held against her will. Upon receiving the report, the police swiftly mobilized to the scene, rescued Livina, and arrested Desey.

Following the incident, Livina was taken to a medical facility for treatment, while Desey remained in custody as investigations continued. The police reiterated their commitment to tackling criminal activities and urged residents to report any suspicious incidents promptly.

This incident follows another case in March where a 35-year-old man was accused of murdering his girlfriend in a farm settlement in Cross River State.