Aniefiok Christopher
In its sustained campaign against robbery, violent crime, and other criminal activities, the Akwa Ibom State Police Command arrested and detained a suspected robber and recovered firearms and other exhibits during an intelligence-led operation in Ifa Atai community, Uyo Local Government Area.
‘‘On 19th October 2026, at about 1900 hours, operatives of the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU), Akwa Ibom State Police Command, acting on credible intelligence, received information concerning suspected armed robbers allegedly responsible for robbing and terrorising residents of Ifa Atai and its surrounding communities.
‘‘The suspects were reportedly sighted brandishing weapons in what was suspected to be an attempt to attack an unsuspecting member of the public,’’ according to DSP Timfon John, Police Public Relations Officer.
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The press release said the operatives moved to an identified hotel within Ifa Atai, where the suspects were allegedly hiding and smoking substances suspected to be hard drugs.
‘‘The operation resulted in the arrest of one Ifiok Owoidem, male, aged 26 years, an indigene of Okon Ikot Essien Village in Essien Udim Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State. However, one other suspect currently at large is being sought by the operatives.
‘‘A search conducted in the arrested suspect’s room led to the recovery of the following exhibits: two locally made pistols, one expanded cartridge, two machetes, and bottles containing substances suspected to be charms or juju.
‘‘Efforts is ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspect, as the Command intensifies its efforts to identify and dismantle criminal networks operating within the state,’’ the release stated.
The Commissioner of Police, Akwa Ibom State Police Command, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, fsi, reiterates the Command’s firm resolve to confront criminality decisively through intelligence-led policing, proactive crime prevention, strategic deployment of operatives, and sustained collaboration with members of the public.
The Command calls on residents of Ifa Atai, and other parts of Akwa Ibom State to remain vigilant and continue to support security agencies by reporting suspicious movements, illegal possession of firearms, and other activities capable of endangering public safety. Members of the public are encouraged to provide useful information through the nearest police station or established police reporting channels.
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command reassures the public that the fight against armed robbery and other violent crimes remains a priority. It urges residents to continue their lawful activities without fear while maintaining cooperation with the Police in the collective effort to sustain peace and security throughout the state.
