Tuesday October 20, 2026
By thenewsdesk.ng
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested a suspected armed-robber, Ifiok Owoidem, of Okon Ikot Essien in Essien Udim Local Government Area.
Ifiok , aged 26 years was apprehended on October 19, 2026 ,at 7pm during an intelligence-led operation in Ifa Atai community, Uyo Metropolis while one suspect is currently at large and operatives are hunting for him.
The Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, DSP Timfon John in a release said that operatives of the Violent Crime Response Unit, VCRU, acting on credible intelligence, received information concerning suspected armed robbers allegedly responsible for robbing and terrorising residents of Ifa Atai and its surrounding communities.
“ The suspects were reportedly sighted brandishing weapons in what was suspected to be an attempt to attack an unsuspecting member of the public.
“Demonstrating operational alertness and a swift response to the intelligence received, the operatives immediately moved to an identified hotel within Ifa Atai, where the suspects were allegedly hiding and smoking substances suspected to be hard drugs,” the statement said.
The Command revealed that a search conducted in the arrested suspect’s room, led to the recovery of exhibit which include two locally made pistols, one expanded cartridge ,two machetes and bottles containing substances suspected to be charms or juju.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police, Akwa Ibom State Police Command, Baba Azare, has called on residents of Ifa Atai, and other parts of Akwa Ibom to remain vigilant and continue to support security agencies by reporting suspicious movements, illegal possession of firearms, and other activities capable of endangering public safety.
“Members of the public are encouraged to provide useful information through the nearest police station or established police reporting channels.
“The Akwa Ibom State Police Command reassures the public that the fight against armed robbery and other violent crimes remains a priority,” Azare added.
