June 19, (THEWILL) – The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested 54 criminal suspects and recovered at least 50 firearms and rounds of ammunition in the last six weeks, including a man accused of hacking his 71-year-old mother to death with a machete.
The State Commissioner of Police, Baba Mohammed Azare, made the disclosure on Thursday during a press briefing at the Command Headquarters, Ikot Akpan Abia, Uyo.
He said the murder suspect, Alexander Ben Peter, was apprehended on June 10, 2025, following the killing of his mother, Mrs. Atiny Ben Peter, in Ikot Inyang Village, Oruk Anam Local Government Area.
“The suspect reportedly used a machete to gruesomely murder his mother. The Command is currently investigating to determine the circumstances and motive behind this heinous act,” Azare said.
Highlighting other recent successes, the CP announced the arrest of five suspected cultists in Ikot Etuk Village, Ibesikpo Asutan LGA.
The suspects—Utibe Edem Asuquo, Godwin Edet Edem, Usen Edem Eyo, Aniebiet Edet Edem, and Anthony Dominic Edem—were caught with a locally made pistol and items suspected to be charms.
In a separate operation, police also arrested a suspected serial vandal, Salvation Emmanuel Jim, who was caught on May 26, 2025, allegedly attempting to vandalize Bishop Clarks Central Primary School in Abak Local Government Area.
Azare noted that within the reporting period, the Command rescued three kidnapped victims and dismantled several criminal networks across the state.
He stated: “We have dismantled cult cells, crushed burglary syndicates, thwarted kidnapping attempts, repelled pirates, and intercepted vandals and armed robbers.
“Let this serve as a clear message—Akwa Ibom is no haven for criminals.”
The CP assured residents that the Command will remain “tough, smart, and focused” in its efforts to maintain peace and security.
“Any individual or group bent on disrupting the peace of our united state should know we are watching and ready to strike decisively,” he warned.
Azare also appealed to residents to continue sharing actionable intelligence with the police to aid investigations and strengthen public safety.
“This Command is committed to building trust with the community. With your support, we will deepen the gains recorded and consolidate the progress made,” he assured.
