Police Arrest Armed Robbery Suspect, Recover Firearm in Uyo

The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested an armed robbery suspect in Uyo and recovered a locally fabricated firearm during a late-night operation.

Police spokesperson DSP Timfon John confirmed the arrest in a statement issued on Monday. She explained that the suspect was apprehended during a stop-and-search operation around the Mayflower axis on Oron Road, Uyo.

The operation followed a distress call received at about 10:30 p.m. on June 27 from a resident of Ikot Okubo, reporting suspected armed robbers’ activities in the area.

John said police personnel quickly mobilised to cordon off and comb the affected area, working in collaboration with community members.

“In the process, a suspect was apprehended. A medium-sized locally fabricated firearm was found in his possession,” she stated.

Other members of the gang fled upon sighting the police, prompting the command to launch a manhunt to track down the fleeing suspects.

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The police spokesperson noted that a thorough investigation is ongoing to determine the suspect’s level of involvement in the alleged criminal activities. She added that the probe would also help identify and dismantle the wider criminal network.

“The investigation will enable the police to establish the suspect’s role and uncover the extent of the group’s operations,” she said.

John assured residents that the command remains committed to protecting lives and property across the state. She urged members of the public to continue supporting the police with timely and credible information to strengthen the fight against crime.

“The command will sustain its campaign against criminality. We encourage citizens to provide intelligence that can help us act swiftly and effectively,” she added.

The arrest highlights the importance of community-police collaboration in tackling insecurity. Akwa Ibom, like many states, has faced challenges with armed robbery and cult-related violence, making proactive policing and public cooperation critical to maintaining safety.

Security analysts note that the recovery of locally fabricated firearms underscores the need for tighter control of illegal weapons and stronger surveillance in urban centres.

The Akwa Ibom Police Command’s swift response and arrest demonstrate its resolve to curb armed robbery in Uyo. With investigations ongoing and a manhunt launched for fleeing suspects, authorities say they are determined to dismantle criminal networks threatening public safety.