October 26, (THEWILL) — The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has dismissed reports alleging that unknown gunmen invaded a students’ lodge in Ikot Ekpene, abducted 15 students, and carted away valuables, describing the claims as false and capable of causing unnecessary panic.
In a statement on Sunday, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, clarified that the incident was not a kidnapping but a lawful operation conducted by operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Uyo Zonal Office.
John explained that the Police received a distress call around 4:30 a.m. on October 24 about a suspected armed robbery incident at Ikot Uboh Village, Ikot Ekpene, prompting the swift deployment of officers to the area.
She said that upon arrival, the Police discovered that the personnel at the scene were EFCC operatives carrying out an authorized operation.
Some individuals were reportedly arrested by the anti-graft agency, but no students were kidnapped as alleged.
The Command cautioned media organisations against spreading unverified information, urging journalists to confirm security-related reports through official channels before publication.
Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammad Azare, commended his officers for their professionalism and restraint during the encounter, noting that their conduct helped prevent a possible misunderstanding between security agencies.
He also appealed to sister security agencies to always notify and collaborate with the Police before conducting operations within the state.
In a separate development, the Police confirmed the death of a tipper driver, identified as Edu Obot, who was electrocuted while offloading sand beneath a high-tension power line at Utu Ikot Ekpenyong, Ikot Ekpene, on October 17.
The victim’s body has been evacuated and deposited in a mortuary as investigations continue.
The Command warned tipper drivers, sand excavators, and construction workers to avoid operating under or near high-tension power lines, describing electrocution as an immediate and fatal hazard.
It advised them to always assess their surroundings, maintain safe distances from electrical installations, and prioritise safety at all times.
The Police reassured residents of their continued commitment to public safety and urged members of the public to rely only on verified information from official sources.
