AKWA IBOM POLICE ARREST 23-YEAR-OLD WITH LOADED SHOTGUN

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By Aishat Momoh. O.

The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested a 23-year-old man, Mfon Essien, with a loaded locally made shotgun in Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area of the state.

The Police Public Relations Officer, Timfon John, disclosed this in a statement made available to journalists on Monday.

According to John, Essien, a native of Ikot Inyang Itak Village in Ikono Local Government Area, was arrested along Ayah Road, off Uyo Road, Ikot Ekpene, on Sunday, September 6, 2026.

The police spokesperson said the arrest followed credible intelligence received by operatives of the command.

John said a search of the suspect allegedly led to the recovery of a locally made shotgun loaded with a live cartridge, which was allegedly concealed under his clothing.

The suspect is currently in police custody as investigators work to determine the source of the firearm, why he was carrying it and whether he has links to other individuals or criminal groups involved in the illegal movement or use of firearms.

The command described the arrest as a major breakthrough in its sustained efforts to curb the proliferation of illegal firearms and prevent violent crime across the state.

The Commissioner of Police, Baba Mohammed Azare, said the command would continue to intensify efforts to remove illegal weapons from the streets and prevent violent crimes.

Azare warned individuals involved in the illegal possession and circulation of firearms to desist, stressing that the police would continue to deploy intelligence-led operations, patrols and other lawful measures against such activities.

“We will continue our efforts to remove illegal weapons from the streets and prevent violent crimes. Those involved in the illegal possession and circulation of firearms should desist because we will continue to use intelligence-led operations, patrols and other lawful measures against them,” he said.

The Commissioner urged residents to remain vigilant and provide the police with credible information about suspicious persons, illegal weapons and criminal activities.

He assured members of the public that the identities of informants would be kept confidential.

“The Police Command remains committed to protecting lives and property and maintaining peace across Akwa Ibom State,” Azare said.