Aniefiok Christopher
Akwa Ibom Police Command has continued to make exploits in combating violent crimes and dismantling the proliferation of illegal firearms across the state.
Consequently, the Command has arrested three suspected cultists linked to the unlawful possession and fabrication of firearms, as well as uncovered an illegal gun manufacturing network.
‘‘Acting on credible intelligence, operatives of the Command, through a well-coordinated and intelligence-driven operation, arrested one Miracle Udo, 27yrs, a native of Cross River State but resident at Ikot Obio Offong, Ibesikpo Asutan Local Government Area, on 24th July, 2026.
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‘A locally fabricated double-barrel cartridge gun was recovered from the suspect at the point of arrest,’’ according to a press release signed by DSP Timfon John, the Command’s Police Public Relations Officer for the state Commissioner of Police, stated.
According to the statement, ‘‘During interrogation, the suspect confessed to being in possession of the firearm and identified one Edet Okon as the individual who supplied him with the weapon. Further investigation led to the arrest of Edet Okon.
‘‘The Command’s investigation was further intensified, leading to the arrest of the suspected fabricator of the firearm, identified as Kufre Stephen, 35yrs, a native of Nsit Atai Local Government Area.
‘‘A search conducted during the operation led to the recovery of several tools and materials suspected to be used in the illegal fabrication of firearms, confirming the existence of an illicit arms production operation.
‘‘Investigations have further revealed the involvement of another suspect, believed to be a welder who regularly assisted in the fabrication process. Efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspect and dismantle every link in the criminal network.’’
The Commissioner of Police, Akwa Ibom State Command, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, fsi, commended the professionalism, vigilance, and resilience of the operatives involved in the operation.
He reiterated the Command’s unwavering commitment to identifying, dismantling, and prosecuting criminal syndicates responsible for the circulation of illegal firearms, cult-related activities, and other violent crimes across the state.
The Command also appreciates members of the public whose timely and credible information continues to aid ongoing efforts to rid the state of criminal elements.
Citizens are encouraged to remain vigilant and continue to partner with the Police by reporting suspicious persons and activities through the appropriate channels.
Police to unravel suspicious death of clergyman
In another development, the Akwa Ibom State Police Command has begun a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death of a clergyman, Pastor Etetim Udo, Founder and General Overseer of Power in the Word of God for the World Ministries, located at No. 1B Etim Inyang Street, Oron.
A statement by the State Police spokesperson, DSP Timfon John said ‘‘On Thursday, 23rd July, 2026, at about 8:18 a.m., the Command received a distress report from a resident who stated that upon arriving at the church premises, where he usually parks his motorcycle, he noticed an unusual gathering. He was subsequently informed by the deceased’s children that their father had allegedly taken his own life.
‘‘Following the report, police operatives immediately mobilised to the scene. Preliminary observations revealed that the deceased was found suspended with a twisted mosquito net rope. The scene was professionally processed by investigators, photographs were taken, and relevant exhibits were recovered to aid forensic examination and further investigation.
‘‘The body was evacuated to the hospital, where the medical doctor on duty confirmed him dead. His remains have since been deposited at the mortuary pending the conduct of an autopsy.’’
According to the statement, ‘‘Although preliminary findings point to a case of suspected suicide, the Command wishes to emphasise that investigations are ongoing to establish the exact circumstances surrounding the incident and rule out every other possibility.
The Commissioner of Police, Akwa Ibom State Command, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, fsi, has assured members of the public that the investigation will be thorough, impartial, and professionally conducted. He appealed to anyone with useful information that could assist the investigation to come forward and cooperate with the police.
The Commissioner of Police also urged members of the public to refrain from spreading unverified information or engaging in speculation capable of misleading the investigation or causing unnecessary public anxiety.
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command remains committed to ensuring that every reported incident is thoroughly investigated in the interest of justice while continuing to protect lives and property across the State.
