AKWA IBOM POLICE RE-ARREST SUSPECTED PHONE HEIST RECEIVER, RECOVER 36 MOBILE PHONES
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By Aishat Momoh. O.
Officers of the Akwa Ibom State Police Command have re-arrested a suspected receiver and distributor of stolen mobile phones, Musa Idris, in possession of 34 assorted Android phones and two button phones allegedly linked to robbery operations within and outside the state.
The Commissioner of Police, Baba Azare, disclosed this during a press briefing at the Command Headquarters in Ikot Akpan-Abia, Uyo, on Wednesday.
Azare said the suspect was arrested along the Calabar–Itu Road following credible intelligence in connection with a recent armed robbery incident in the area.
He added that investigations revealed Idris had previously been arrested in October 2025 for similar offences involving armed robbery and possession of over 200 suspected stolen mobile phones.
According to the police, the recovered devices are believed to be proceeds of coordinated robbery operations carried out by criminal networks operating within and outside Akwa Ibom State.
“The recovered phones are reasonably suspected to be proceeds of armed robbery operations carried out by criminal elements operating within and outside Akwa Ibom State,” the commissioner said.
Azare further disclosed that preliminary investigations indicated the suspect may be part of a wider syndicate involved in the cross-border movement and resale of stolen mobile phones, adding that efforts were ongoing to apprehend other members of the network.
The commissioner also confirmed the prosecution of one Akaninyene Udo, also known online as “AK Philo,” for allegedly circulating false security information capable of inciting panic. The suspect has been charged to court and remanded.
He warned that the dissemination of false security alerts remains a criminal offence and would be prosecuted under the law.
Azare also announced a statewide enforcement operation targeting vehicles with covered, altered, or missing registration plates, urging motorists to comply with vehicle regulations.
He commended the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, for providing first aid kits to police commands nationwide, describing it as a boost to operational welfare and readiness.
The commissioner further presented commendation certificates to officers for professionalism and dedication to duty, reaffirming the command’s commitment to discipline, accountability, and improved policing standards.
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