Police Foil IPOB’s Plot, Recover Arms From Suspects

The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has disclosed alleged plot to attack and unleash mayhem on Akwa Ibom State by the militant wing of the outlawed Indigenous People Of Biafra (IPOB).

LEADERSHIP gathered prior to the attack, the IPOB militants have been ferrying dangerous weapons into the state in readiness for the offensive, but were apprehended at the border area between Akwa Ibom and Abia State within Ikot Ekpene local government area.

ASP Timfon, John, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), at the Police Command headquarters, Ikot Akpanabia, near Uyo, the state capital, told journalists that the plot was uncovered and busted following incontrovertible intelligence from members of the civil society.

She said: “The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has recovered arms and ammunition from suspected IPOB agents during an intensive patrol operation.

“The recovery was made by the Command’s operatives who were on intensive patrol along Stadium Road in Abiakpo Edem Inyang Village, Ikot Ekpene LGA, upon intelligence information that IPOB were planning to launch an attack on the state and her facilities.

“During the patrol, the team flagged down a Lexus Jeep with Registration Number KUJ 886 FF. On sighting the police, two unidentified young men came down from the jeep and took to their heels into the nearby forest.

“While searching the vehicle, the team recovered one AK 47 rifle loaded with 8 No of 8MM ammunition; one locally made long range pistol, one cartridge, four different vehicle number plates, Zenith and Access Banks ATM cards, National Drivers’ License card, black coloured clothes, bags containing substances suspected to be Indian hemp and a torchlight.

“The team, with the assistance of the village youth combed the forest in search of the fleeing suspects. But no arrest has been made so far. The team is not resting on it’s oars as it is determined to fetch the suspects and whoever is their sponsors and accomplices.

“The Command appeals to residents of the community and State to be vigilant and report suspicious and unknown movements to the Police for outright action. It is the full commitment of the Nigerian Police in the State to make Akwa Ibom very hot and uncomfortable for criminal elements.”