Police arrest 63 suspects, recover 19 firearms

… assure safety ahead of Nigeria vs Rwanda match

Ememobong Okon

The Commissioner of Police in Akwa Ibom State, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, says the command has arrested 63 suspects, recovered 19 firearms, and foiled multiple criminal operations across the state in recent months.

Azare made this known on Wednesday during a press briefing at the conference hall of the State Police Headquarters in Uyo, where he highlighted the command’s achievements and assured residents of improved safety, especially ahead of the upcoming Nigeria vs Rwanda international football match.

Police crackdown on crime

The Commissioner of Police stated that the command recorded 75 major criminal cases between August and September, arrested six suspected kidnappers, one murder suspect, 18 suspected cultists, five vandalism suspects, and 12-armed robbery suspects. He added that they also rescued two kidnap victims.

“During operations, officers recovered an AK-47 rifle, a Beretta pistol, 14 locally made firearms, and 104 rounds of ammunition. The Command also arrested suspects linked to oil bunkering, seizing crude oil and boats as evidence,” he said.

Public order and emergency response

Azare warned youth against blocking highways during employment or community disputes, urging them to seek legal and peaceful means of resolving issues. He released multiple emergency hotlines and promised that officers would respond to distress calls within five minutes.

Ongoing investigations

The Commissioner confirmed that investigations are still ongoing into a church stabbing incident in Ukanafun, stressing that “an investigation is not done in one or two days.” He also announced that immigration-related suspects would be handed over to the Immigration Controller for further action.

University of Uyo security concerns

Azare addressed reports of hoodlums attacking students during Computer-Based Tests (CBT) at the University of Uyo Permanent Campus, Nwaniba Road. He urged students and university authorities to report such incidents officially, noting that “any case not reported is not a case.”

He, however, assured the public that police officers rely heavily on community reports to respond effectively.

Assurance for football fans

Looking ahead to the Nigeria vs Rwanda international match, Azare said the command has deployed its total strength to guarantee safety.

“Tactical teams have been stationed strategically around the stadium and surrounding areas to ensure peaceful conduct and effective crowd management,” he added.

Prosecution and evidence

Azare confirmed that almost all the suspects arrested have been processed for prosecution. Many confessed immediately upon arrest, having been caught in the act or implicated by accomplices. He also presented evidence, including recovered vehicles and crude oil linked to illegal bunkering operations. The commissioner reassured residents that the command remains committed to tackling crime head-on and working with communities to keep Akwa Ibom safe.