Police seek Uyo victims of alleged machete attacks

Etim Ekpimah

The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has urged residents allegedly attacked or robbed by a man wielding a machete around Osongama and Four Lanes in Uyo to come forward and make formal reports.
The command made the appeal on Thursday in a statement signed by its Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, Baba Mohammed Azare.
The appeal followed the circulation of a message on social media alleging that a machete-wielding man had been attacking and robbing residents in the areas.
The police urged anyone who may have been attacked or robbed in connection with the allegation to report to the nearest police station.
According to the statement, victims of the machete attacks are advised to provide details that could assist the investigation, including the date, time and location of the incident, a description of the suspect, items allegedly stolen and any available evidence.
The command said such reports would help investigators establish the facts surrounding the allegations and identify and trace the suspect.
It also appealed to members of the public with credible information that could assist the investigation to contact the police.
The command advised residents to remain calm and avoid confronting anyone suspected of carrying a weapon.
It urged the public to report suspicious activities promptly to the police and refrain from circulating unverified information capable of causing unnecessary fear or panic.