Police intercept bus, recover 415 cartridges, arrest suspects in A’Ibom
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has recorded another major operational success with the recovery of a large cache of live ammunition and the arrest of a suspect, as well as two commuters accused of obstructing lawful police duties.
According to the Command, the operation took place on 23 January 2026 at about 11:00 p.m., when operatives on routine stop-and-search patrol along the Calabar–Itu Highway intercepted a commercial bus with registration number ARR 600 ZY, travelling towards Calabar.
A thorough search of the vehicle led to the recovery of a carton containing 415 live cartridges. The bus was driven by one Ikenna, with several passengers on board.
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Police intercept bus, recover 415 cartridges, arrest suspects in A’Ibom
Etim Ekpimah
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has recorded another major operational success with the recovery of a large cache of live ammunition and the arrest of a suspect, as well as two commuters accused of obstructing lawful police duties.
According to the Command, the operation took place on 23 January 2026 at about 11:00 p.m., when operatives on routine stop-and-search patrol along the Calabar–Itu Highway intercepted a commercial bus with registration number ARR 600 ZY, travelling towards Calabar.
A thorough search of the vehicle led to the recovery of a carton containing 415 live cartridges. The bus was driven by one Ikenna, with several passengers on board.
During interrogation, the driver claimed that the ammunition did not belong to him, stating that it was being conveyed as a waybill consignment to an unidentified recipient in Calabar.
Meanwhile, a commuter identified as “Excel” allegedly obstructed the officers in the lawful discharge of their duties by engaging in provocative behaviour.
Another commuter, identified as Bright, who claimed to be an official of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) but failed to produce a valid means of identification, allegedly joined in assaulting the police officers. Both individuals were immediately arrested.
Further investigations led to the arrest of one Ndubisi Raphael, a 36-year-old indigene of Nyaje Village, Akamkpa Local Government Area of Cross River State.
He was apprehended in Calabar and taken into police custody in connection with the recovered ammunition.
The Commissioner of Police, Baba Mohammed Azare, has ordered a discreet and thorough investigation to unravel the source and intended use of the ammunition, with a view to prosecuting all those found culpable.
The command reiterated its determination to curb the proliferation of illegal arms and ammunition and warned members of the public against obstructing police officers in the lawful performance of their duties.
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command further assured residents of its continued commitment to maintaining peace, public safety and security across the state.
