September 07, (THEWILL) — The Akwa Ibom State Police Command says it intensified its crackdown on crime, recording three major breakthroughs in Uyo and Ikot Ekpene within two weeks. Suspects linked to vandalism, theft, and armed robbery have been apprehended, with stolen items recovered in the process.
In Uyo, a patrol team, on September 2, intercepted vandals who attempted to cart away a dismantled telecommunications mast along Obong Sampson Idiong Drive. Acting on intelligence, operatives stormed the scene where the suspects were loading the mast into a green Isuzu truck.
On sighting the police, the criminals fled, abandoning the truck with registration number AFG 517 XA. One suspect, identified as 30-year-old Amisu Bala, was arrested after a hot pursuit. Police say he is cooperating with investigators while efforts are underway to track down his fleeing accomplices.
The recovered mast and truck have been secured by the Command. According to the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, preliminary findings suggest the syndicate may have links to other cases of infrastructure vandalism in the state.
In a separate operation, operatives on routine patrol along Abak Road in Uyo on August 26 intercepted a Toyota Corolla laden with stolen automotive parts. The driver, Ugochukwu Igwe, was promptly arrested after a search revealed two truck batteries, seven motor batteries, several catalytic converters, a motor condenser, and an alternator hidden inside the vehicle.
The Command disclosed that other valuable properties were also recovered during the operation. The suspect is currently undergoing interrogation to uncover the wider network of stolen car parts dealing within and outside the state.
Meanwhile, in Ikot Ekpene, an attempted armed robbery was foiled following a distress call from residents of Abiakpo Ntak Inyang village in the early hours of September 2. Two assailants had attacked villagers with a machete and a jackknife before police swiftly intervened.
One suspect, identified as Ubong Victor Elijah of Obot Akara LGA, was arrested at the scene, while his accomplice, known as Wisdom, escaped. Items recovered included a black face mask and two jackknives. The victims, who sustained multiple stab wounds, were rushed to the hospital and are responding to treatment.
DSP John confirmed that the arrested suspect has confessed to his role in the robbery attempt. She added that the Command under Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, is intensifying efforts to apprehend fleeing accomplices and ensure justice is served.
She urged residents to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities to security agencies, stressing that the police remain committed to safeguarding lives and property in Akwa Ibom State.
