Police recover firearm, suspected drugs in Ibeno
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has recovered a locally made firearm and a large quantity of suspected Indian hemp during an intelligence-led operation in Ibeno Local Government Area.
The recovery followed a targeted operation carried out by operatives of the Command based on credible intelligence and strategic surveillance, as part of ongoing efforts to combat criminality, illicit drug trafficking, and unlawful possession of firearms across the state.
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Etim Ekpimah
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has recovered a locally made firearm and a large quantity of suspected Indian hemp during an intelligence-led operation in Ibeno Local Government Area.
The recovery followed a targeted operation carried out by operatives of the Command based on credible intelligence and strategic surveillance, as part of ongoing efforts to combat criminality, illicit drug trafficking, and unlawful possession of firearms across the state.
Police said the operation was launched following intelligence reports on suspicious activities linked to the concealment and distribution of illicit substances within the Ibeno axis.
During the operation, officers recovered one locally made pistol, a large quantity of substances suspected to be Indian hemp, and several wraps of suspected hard drugs packaged for illegal distribution. The exhibits were recovered from identified locations and have since been secured as investigations continue.
Preliminary investigations suggest that the firearm and suspected narcotics may be connected to criminal elements engaged in activities capable of threatening public peace and security in the area.
The command said efforts had been intensified to identify and arrest all individuals connected to the recovered items, while ongoing investigations are expected to uncover further leads and dismantle any criminal networks linked to the operation.
The Commissioner of Police, Baba Mohammed Azare, fsi, commended officers involved in the operation for their vigilance, professionalism, and swift response, describing the recovery as evidence of the Command’s commitment to tackling crime across the state.
He reiterated the Command’s resolve to sustain pressure on criminal elements and maintain safety and security across Akwa Ibom State.
The police commissioner warned individuals involved in drug trafficking, cult-related activities, unlawful possession of firearms, and other criminal acts to desist or face decisive action.
According to him, Akwa Ibom would remain a hostile territory for criminals, adding that the Command would continue to pursue and prosecute offenders.
Azare also urged residents to remain vigilant and support the police with timely and credible information on suspicious activities, assuring the public that all information received would be treated confidentially and acted upon promptly.
He reaffirmed the command’s commitment to protecting lives and property through proactive and intelligence-driven policing strategies across the state.
DSP Timfon John, Police Public Relations Officer, signed the release and made it available to journalists on Sunday, 31 May 2026.
