August 24, (THEWILL) — The Akwa Ibom State Police Command says it has recorded a series of breakthroughs in its fight against crime, with the recovery of a stolen vehicle, the arrest of a notorious vandal, and the clampdown on illicit drug trade across the state.
In a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, the Command confirmed the recovery of a coffee-brown Toyota Carina E with registration number UYY 351 DA along Aba Road, opposite the former SUA Hotel in Ikot Ekpene. The vehicle, suspected to have been stolen from the premises of a hospital in Uyo, was abandoned by the suspect, who fled on sighting police operatives. Efforts are ongoing to track down the fleeing suspect.
Similarly, operatives of the Command arrested a 23-year-old suspected vandal, God’stime Emmanuel James, during an intelligence-led raid on his hideout at Midim Water Side. James, who had been on the wanted list for vandalising school facilities and private homes, was apprehended while several accomplices escaped into a nearby creek. Items recovered at the scene included a handbag containing dried leaves suspected to be cannabis, four door handles, a mini flashlight, and parts of damaged door locks.
DSP John stated that James is in custody, and urged victims of vandalism in the community to come forward to identify the suspect and provide statements to aid prosecution.
In another development, the Command launched a crackdown on the illicit drug trade in Uyo metropolis. The coordinated operation, carried out on August 18, led to the arrest of four suspects: Gideon Patrick Edet, Paul Joseph Effiong, Mfon Cletus Ikpe, and Gideon Edet Etim. A large quantity of substances suspected to be Indian hemp was recovered during the raids on drug black spots.
The PPRO assured that investigations into the arrests are ongoing, adding that the Command remains committed to safeguarding lives and property. “The Akwa Ibom State Police Command will continue to act on credible intelligence to rid the state of criminal elements and sustain public safety”, she said.
Residents were urged to provide useful information to the police to assist ongoing investigations and ensure the prosecution of offenders.
