Police Nab Suspected Gunrunner, Recover 415 Live Cartridges In Akwa Ibom

In the ongoing mop-up operations to rid Akwa Ibom State of small arms and light weapons ahead of the 2027 general election, Police operatives have apprehended a suspected gunrunner, recovering large cache of live ammunition.

Disclosing this to journalists at the State Police Command headquarters, Ikot Akpanabia, Uyo, the State capital on Friday, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Timfon John, explained that the feat was achieved through intelligence-led stop-and-search operation by officers and men of the Command.

She said: “The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has recorded another significant operational success with the recovery of a large cache of live ammunition, the arrest of the suspect who owns the ammunition and others who obstructed lawful Police duties.

“Operatives of the Command while on routine stop-and-search patrol along the Calabar–Itu Highway, intercepted a commercial bus with registration number ARR600ZY, en – route Calabar, Cross River State.

“During a thorough search of the vehicle, a carton containing 415 live cartridges was recovered. The vehicle was driven by one Ikenna, with passengers on board.

“Upon interrogation, the driver claimed that the ammunition was not his, but was allegedly conveyed as a waybill consignment to an unidentified person in Calabar.

“In the course of the operation, a commuter identified as “Excel” obstructed officers in the lawful discharge of their duties by engaging in provocative conduct.

“Additionally, another commuter, one Bright who claimed to be an official of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) but failed to produce a valid identification, joined in assaulting the Police officers. Both individuals were promptly arrested.

“Upon further investigations, One Ndubisi Raphael, 36-year-old indigene of Nyaje village of Akamkpa local government area, Cross River State, was subsequently arrested in Calabar and taken into Police custody.”

Consequently, the Commissioner of Police (CP), Baba Azare, has ordered “a discreet and thorough investigation to unravel the source and intended use of the recovered ammunition with a view to prosecuting all persons found culpable.”

“The Command reiterates its resolve to combat the proliferation of illegal arms and ammunition and warns members of the public against obstructing police officers in the lawful execution of their duties.

“The Akwa Ibom State Police Command assures residents that it remains committed to maintaining peace, public safety, and security across the State,” the Police spokesperson stressed.