The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has intensified its crackdown on illegal arms proliferation, arresting two armed suspects and recovering multiple firearms in a decisive early morning raid in Oruk Anam Local Government Area.
In a coordinated intelligence-led operation at about 5:55 a.m. on February 25, 2026, operatives stormed a residence at Nung Oku Ibiet 1 Village following credible information linked to an ongoing investigation into a reported stealing case.
The operation led to the arrest of two male suspects, Etop Otu and Enobong Umoh. A systematic search of the premises uncovered a disturbing cache of weapons, including one double-barrel rifle, five single-barrel rifles, three live cartridges, 22 expended cartridges, and a piece of carbide used for refilling spent ammunition.
Police sources said the quantity and nature of the recovered arms suggest the existence of an organised criminal network capable of threatening public peace and security in the area.
The suspects are currently in custody and will be charged to court upon conclusion of investigations under relevant provisions of the Firearms Act and other criminal laws.
The Commissioner of Police, Baba Mohammed Azare, reiterated the Command’s zero-tolerance stance on illegal arms possession, cultism, and violent crimes. He warned that anyone found harbouring criminals, concealing firearms, or aiding unlawful activities would be treated as a principal offender and prosecuted accordingly.
Residents were urged to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements or criminal hideouts to the nearest police formation, with assurances that credible information would be treated confidentially.
The Command reaffirmed its commitment to sustained intelligence-driven operations aimed at dismantling criminal networks and maintaining law and order across Akwa Ibom State.
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