The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has recorded a major breakthrough in its crackdown on illegal arms, recovering a firearm and live ammunition from a suspected serial intimidator accused of terrorising both his family and members of his community.
The recovery followed an intelligence-led operation conducted in the early hours of July 11 at Ikot Akpan Afaha Village, where police stormed the residence of one Edet George after receiving reports that he habitually threatened residents with a gun.
During a thorough search of the premises, operatives recovered a concealed single-barrel gun and eight live cartridges, dealing another blow to the proliferation of illegal firearms in the state.
The investigation took a dramatic turn when the suspect’s wife, whose identity was withheld, reportedly informed investigators that the firearm had long been used to intimidate not only neighbours but also members of his own household, including herself and their children.
Police have since taken the recovered weapon and ammunition into custody while detectives intensify investigations to trace the origin of the firearm, establish its legal status, and determine whether it had been used in previous criminal activities.
Reacting to the development, the Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, reaffirmed the Command’s resolve to rid Akwa Ibom of illegal weapons and ensure that anyone using firearms to instill fear or threaten innocent citizens is brought to justice.
The Command said it remains committed to intelligence-driven operations aimed at dismantling criminal networks, curbing the spread of illicit arms, and guaranteeing the safety and security of residents across the state.
