By ABC News Nigeria
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested a 26-year-old suspected armed robber and recovered two locally made pistols, a cartridge and other items during an intelligence-led operation in Ifa Atai community.
The operation, conducted by operatives of the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU), took place at about 7 p.m. on Monday, October 19, 2026, following intelligence about suspected armed robbers allegedly terrorising residents of Ifa Atai and neighbouring communities.
According to the police, the suspects were reportedly seen brandishing weapons, raising fears of a possible attack on an unsuspecting member of the public.
Acting on the information, the operatives swiftly moved to a hotel in Ifa Atai where the suspects were believed to be hiding and allegedly smoking substances suspected to be hard drugs.
The operation led to the arrest of Ifiok Owoidem, 26, an indigene of Okon Ikot Essien Village in Essien Udim Local Government Area of the state.
However, another suspect reportedly escaped and is currently being pursued by the police.
Two Pistols, Machetes Recovered
A search of the arrested suspect’s room led to the recovery of two locally made pistols, one expanded cartridge, two machetes and bottles containing substances suspected to be charms.
The police said efforts were ongoing to track down the fleeing suspect and identify other individuals who might be connected to the alleged criminal activities.
The development comes as the Command intensifies its operations against armed robbery, violent crime and other security threats across Akwa Ibom State.
CP Azare Reaffirms Crackdown on Criminals
The Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, fsi, reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to tackling criminal activities through intelligence-led policing, proactive crime prevention and the strategic deployment of personnel.
He also emphasised the importance of public cooperation in identifying and preventing criminal activities.
The Command urged residents of Ifa Atai and other communities across the state to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements, illegal possession of firearms and other activities that could threaten public safety.
Residents were encouraged to provide useful information through the nearest police station or established police reporting channels.
The police assured residents that the fight against armed robbery and other violent crimes remained a priority, urging members of the public to continue their lawful activities while cooperating with security agencies to maintain peace and order.
The statement was signed by DSP Timfon John, LLB, ANIPR, Police Public Relations Officer, Akwa Ibom State Police Command, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, on October 20, 2026.
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