Police Mop up Arms, Nab Suspected Gunrunner In Akwa Ibom

Operatives of the Akwa Ibom State Police Command have intensified raid on crime-prone areas to mop up small arms and light weapons towards a hitch-free electioneering.

Consequently, a 23-year- old suspected cult leader, was apprehended with a firearm at Ikot Ekpene local government area.

Disclosing this to journalists at Ikot Akpanabia, the state headquarters yesterday, the police spokesperson, DSP Timfon John, explained that the successful operation was achieved through credible intelligence volunteered by concerned residents.

She said, “The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has recorded another operational breakthrough in its sustained efforts to curb the proliferation of illegal firearms and prevent violent crime across the state.

“On 6th September, 2026, at about 12:30 p.m., operatives of the command acting on credible intelligence, intercepted one Mfon Essien, male, aged 23 years, of Ikot Inyang Itak Village, Ikono local government area, on Aya Road, off Uyo Road, Ikot Ekpene.

“During a search conducted on the suspect, operatives recovered one locally made shotgun loaded with a live cartridge, which was carefully concealed in his clothing.”

“The suspect was immediately arrested, while the recovered firearm and ammunition were secured as exhibits. He is currently in Police custody undergoing thorough interrogation and investigation.”

She assured that the ongoing investigation has been intensified to establish the source of the firearm, the purpose for which it was being carried, and whether the suspect has any connection with other persons or criminal networks involved in the acquisition, movement or use of illegal firearms.

The Commissioner of Police (CP), Baba Mohammed Azare, reaffirmed the Command’s resolve to relentlessly pursue individuals involved in the unlawful possession and circulation of firearms across the State.

The CP warned that the Command will continue to deploy intelligence-led policing, targeted operations, patrols and other lawful crime-prevention measures to ensure that illegal weapons are taken off the streets before they are used to perpetrate violent crimes.

He further urged members of the public to remain vigilant and continue to provide the Police with timely and credible information concerning suspicious persons, illegal firearms and other criminal activities, assuring that the identities of informants will be treated with utmost confidentiality.

“The Akwa Ibom State Police Command remains resolute in its commitment to safeguarding lives and property and sustaining the prevailing peace and security across the State,” Azare vowed.