RismadarVoice Reporters, February 26, 2026
Akwa Ibom State Police Command has intensified its crackdown on illegal arms proliferation and violent crime with the arrest of two armed suspects and the recovery of multiple firearms in Oruk Anam Local Government Area.
The breakthrough followed a coordinated intelligence-led operation carried out at about 5:55a.m. on February 25, 2026.
Acting on credible intelligence and in continuation of investigations into a reported stealing case, police operatives stormed the residence of a principal suspect at Nung Oku Ibiet 1 Village in Oruk Anam.
The operation led to the arrest of Etop Otu and Enobong Umoh, both males.
A thorough search of the premises resulted in the recovery of one double-barrel rifle, five single-barrel rifles, three live cartridges, 22 expended cartridges, and a piece of carbide used for refilling spent cartridges.
Police authorities said the quantity and nature of the recovered weapons suggest the activities of an organised criminal network with the capacity to threaten public peace and security.
The suspects are currently in police custody and will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.
They are expected to be prosecuted under relevant provisions of the Firearms Act and other applicable criminal laws, which prescribe severe penalties, including substantial prison terms, for unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, fsi, reiterated the Command’s zero-tolerance stance against violent crimes, illegal possession of arms, cultism, and other acts capable of undermining public safety.
He assured residents that the Command would sustain intelligence-driven operations, strategic raids, and firm enforcement measures to ensure that criminal elements are identified and brought to justice.
The Police Commissioner also warned that anyone found harbouring criminals, concealing illegal arms, aiding unlawful activities, or obstructing police operations would be treated as a principal offender and prosecuted accordingly.
The Command urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities, criminal hideouts, or unlawful possession of firearms to the nearest police formation, assuring that all credible information would be treated confidentially.
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to ridding the state of illegal arms and criminal networks while maintaining peace and public order.
