Operatives of the Nigeria Police Force in Akwa Ibom State have arrested four suspects over the vandalization of a facility belonging to Seplat Energy at Mkpanak Village in Ibeno Local Government Area.
The arrests followed a distress call received on March 11, 2026, from the company’s security control room reporting that a group of youths allegedly led by one James Eshiet had vandalized the company’s signpost and attempted to forcefully break into the facility with plans to destroy other critical installations.
Acting on the directive of the Commissioner of Police, Baba Mohammed Azare, police operatives swiftly mobilized to the scene.
On arrival, officers discovered that the company’s signpost had already been forcefully pulled down and destroyed.
The hoodlums, said to be about 25 in number, allegedly resisted arrest and attempted to obstruct police operations.
Despite the resistance, the police carried out a coordinated operation and successfully arrested four suspects identified as Prince Afaiko (48), Emmanuel Okpolo (36), Daniel Christopher (32), and Effiong Effiong (39), all residents of Mkpanak Village.
Security sources said surveillance teams have since been deployed to track down the alleged ring leader, James Eshiet, and other fleeing members of the group who are currently at large.
Condemning the incident, CP Azare warned that vandalism, intimidation, and destruction of corporate property will not be tolerated in the state.
The police boss cautioned youths and community groups against taking the law into their own hands, stressing that grievances must be pursued through lawful and peaceful channels.
The command reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives, securing investments, and ensuring a safe environment for businesses to operate across Akwa Ibom.
Residents were also urged to support law enforcement agencies with credible information that could aid the arrest of other suspects involved in the attack.
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