A major breakthrough in the fight against kidnapping was recorded on Saturday, August 2, as operatives of the Akwa Ibom State Police Command neutralized a wanted kidnap kingpin during a fierce gun duel in Ikot Umiang village, Mkpat Enin Local Government Area.
The late suspect, identified as 27-year-old John Ubong Akpan, had long been on the radar of security operatives. He was part of a notorious gang that terrorized residents of the area from 2020 to 2023 and was allegedly linked to the high-profile abduction of a church founder in 2023.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, LLB, Anipr, intelligence gathered by the Command revealed that members of the gang had regrouped in Mkpat Enin and were plotting fresh kidnappings. Acting swiftly on the tip-off, a surveillance team stormed their hideout in Ikot Umiang around 4:00 PM.
Upon arrival, the operatives were met with gunfire from the gang. The police, in a tactical counteroffensive, shot and neutralized Akpan, while other members of the gang escaped into the surrounding bush.
Recovered from the scene were a locally fabricated pistol, one live cartridge, and one expended shell casing—evidence confirming the gang’s readiness to strike again.
Akpan, who sustained gunshot wounds during the exchange, was rushed to a nearby hospital but was confirmed dead on arrival by medical personnel.
In response to the development, the Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, fsi, has ordered intensified patrols and surveillance in and around the area, urging residents to remain vigilant and continue supplying useful information to assist in apprehending the fleeing suspects.
This operation marks yet another successful stride by the Akwa Ibom State Police Command in dismantling violent criminal networks and restoring public confidence in law enforcement.
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