Police arrest four over Seplat facility vandalism
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested four suspects over the alleged vandalisation and malicious destruction of property belonging to Seplat Energy in Mkpanak Village, Ibeno Local Government Area.
According to the police, the incident occurred on 11 March 2026 at about 12:00 pm when the command received a distress call from the security control room of Seplat Energy, reporting that a group of youths, allegedly led by their youth leader, James Eshiet, had vandalised the company’s signpost and attempted to forcefully gain access to the facility with the intention of destroying other critical installations.
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Police arrest four over Seplat facility vandalism
Etim Ekpimah
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested four suspects over the alleged vandalisation and malicious destruction of property belonging to Seplat Energy in Mkpanak Village, Ibeno Local Government Area.
According to the police, the incident occurred on 11 March 2026 at about 12:00 pm when the command received a distress call from the security control room of Seplat Energy, reporting that a group of youths, allegedly led by their youth leader, James Eshiet, had vandalised the company’s signpost and attempted to forcefully gain access to the facility with the intention of destroying other critical installations.
Acting on the directive of the Commissioner of Police, Baba Mohammed Azare, operatives of the command swiftly mobilised to the scene.
Upon arrival, officers discovered that the company’s signpost had already been pulled down and destroyed. The suspects, said to be about 25 in number, reportedly resisted arrest and attempted to obstruct police operations.
However, following a coordinated tactical response, the police arrested four suspects identified as Prince Afaiko, 48; Emmanuel Okpolo, 36; Daniel Christopher, 32; and Effiong Effiong, 39. All the suspects are natives of Mkpanak Village.
Police surveillance teams are currently tracking the alleged ring leader and other fleeing members of the group who remain at large. Authorities say efforts have been intensified to ensure their swift arrest and prosecution.
Azare condemned the act, describing vandalism and criminal intimidation against corporate facilities as unacceptable.
He stressed that no individual or group has the right to resort to self-help, violence, or destruction of property under any circumstances.
The command also warned members of the public, particularly youth groups, against taking the law into their own hands, urging them to channel grievances through lawful and peaceful means.
The police further assured residents and investors of their commitment to protecting lives and property and providing a secure environment for businesses to operate across the state.
Members of the public were encouraged to provide credible information to assist the police in maintaining peace and security.
