Police Arrest Suspected Armed Robber, Recover Weapons in Akwa Ibom

The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has recorded another operational breakthrough in its ongoing crackdown on armed robbery and other violent crimes across the state.

This was disclosed in a statement issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, who said the operation followed credible intelligence received in the early hours of the day.

According to the statement, police operatives on routine patrol at about 3:00 a.m. received information about a notorious syndicate specializing in robbing unsuspecting motorcycle operators at gunpoint within Midim Clan and surrounding areas.

Acting swiftly on the intelligence, the operatives mobilized and stormed the suspected criminal hideout in a coordinated operation. On sighting the police team, the suspects reportedly attempted to flee, but one of them, identified as Uduak Vincent, 28, a native of Ikot Ifang Village in Midim Clan, Abak Local Government Area, was apprehended after a chase.

Items recovered from the suspect include a locally made pistol, a small axe, a knife, charms suspected to be used for criminal fortification, six wraps of substance believed to be Indian hemp, two button phones, three bottles of ICE, three rings, one Airtel SIM card, and a multi-coloured handbag.

The statement added that two other members of the gang escaped into nearby bushes during the operation, while efforts are ongoing to track them down and bring them to justice.

The Commissioner of Police, Baba Mohammed Azare, reaffirmed the Command’s resolve to rid the state of criminal elements, warning violent offenders to either desist or face decisive police action.

The Command also urged residents to continue supporting the police with timely and credible information, assuring that all reports would be treated with utmost confidentiality.