Police smash firearms syndicate, arrest three suspected cultists
Operatives of the Akwa Ibom State Police Command have uncovered an illegal arms manufacturing syndicate, arresting three suspected cultists and recovering a locally fabricated firearm alongside manufacturing equipment.
The operation commenced on 24 July 2026, when police officers acting on credible intelligence arrested 27-year-old Miracle Udo at Ikot Obio Offong, in the Ibesikpo Asutan Local Government Area. Udo, an indigene of Cross River State, was found in possession of a locally fabricated double-barrel cartridge gun.
Etim Ekpimah
Operatives of the Akwa Ibom State Police Command have uncovered an illegal arms manufacturing syndicate, arresting three suspected cultists and recovering a locally fabricated firearm alongside manufacturing equipment.
The operation commenced on 24 July 2026, when police officers acting on credible intelligence arrested 27-year-old Miracle Udo at Ikot Obio Offong, in the Ibesikpo Asutan Local Government Area. Udo, an indigene of Cross River State, was found in possession of a locally fabricated double-barrel cartridge gun.
During interrogation, Udo admitted to possessing the firearm and named Edet Okon as his supplier. Officers subsequently tracked down and arrested Okon.
Further investigation led police to the alleged arms fabricator, 35-year-old Kufre Stephen, a native of the Nsit Atai Local Government Area. A search of Stephen’s premises yielded tools and materials used in manufacturing illegal firearms, confirming the existence of an illicit arms workshop.
Police revealed that a fourth suspect, a welder believed to have assisted in the fabrication process, remains at large. Operatives are currently tracking the fleeing suspect to fully dismantle the network.
Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, said the Commissioner of Police for Akwa Ibom State, Baba Mohammed Azare, commended the officers involved for their vigilance and professionalism. He reaffirmed the command’s commitment to eradicating illegal arms syndicates, cult activity, and violent crime across the state.
The command expressed gratitude to the public for providing timely information and urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity through official police channels.
