Police foil bomb threat at Ikot Ekpene custodial centre
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has thwarted what could have been a major security breach and potential tragedy at the Nigerian Correctional Service Custodial Centre in Ikot Ekpene following the timely recovery of high-explosive ordnance near the facility.
On 27 April 2026, acting swiftly on credible intelligence from correctional authorities about suspicious items found around the custodial centre, the Commissioner of Police, Baba Mohammed Azare, ordered the deployment of the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit, BomPol Base 38, Uyo, along with other tactical teams to secure the area.
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*Explosive device
Etim Ekpimah
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has thwarted what could have been a major security breach and potential tragedy at the Nigerian Correctional Service Custodial Centre in Ikot Ekpene following the timely recovery of high-explosive ordnance near the facility.
On 27 April 2026, acting swiftly on credible intelligence from correctional authorities about suspicious items found around the custodial centre, the Commissioner of Police, Baba Mohammed Azare, ordered the deployment of the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit, BomPol Base 38, Uyo, along with other tactical teams to secure the area.
A coordinated search and sweep operation led to the recovery of the following items: two 90mm high-explosive rounds, a 45cm length of burning fuse, one pair of pincers, one flat screwdriver, two 12mm iron chisels, and one 6cm iron conduit pipe.
The EOD team professionally rendered the explosive devices safe, neutralising any imminent threat and preventing possible loss of life and destruction of critical infrastructure.
The command has since reinforced security around the correctional facility and its surrounding areas through increased surveillance, stricter access control, and continuous patrols to deter further threats.
DSP Timfon John, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, said a discreet investigation and technical analysis had commenced to determine the origin of the explosives and apprehend those behind the dangerous act.
She stated that the Commissioner of Police reassured residents that the situation was fully under control, with no casualties recorded, and urged members of the public to remain vigilant by promptly reporting suspicious persons or items.
John explained that Azare also warned criminal elements that the command would not tolerate any attempt to undermine public safety or target critical institutions, stressing that Akwa Ibom State remains hostile to crime and criminality.
The command reaffirmed its commitment to remaining resolute, proactive, and ever ready to protect lives and property across the state.
