Police arrest 23-year-old man with loaded firearm in Akwa Ibom

The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested a 23-year-old man with a loaded locally made shotgun in Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area of the state.

In a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, Timfon John, and made available to journalists on Monday, the suspect, identified as Mfon Essien from Ikot Inyang Itak Village in Ikono Local Government Area, was arrested along Ayah Road, off Uyo Road, Ikot Ekpene, on Sunday.

John said the arrest had brought a major breakthrough in the sustained efforts to curb the proliferation of illegal firearms and prevent violent crime across the state.

The statement read, “The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested a 23-year-old man with a loaded locally made shotgun in Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area of the state.

“The suspect, identified as Mfon Essien from Ikot Inyang Itak Village in Ikono Local Government Area, was arrested along Ayah Road, off Uyo Road, Ikot Ekpene, on Sunday, September 6, 2026.”

According to the police, the arrest followed credible intelligence received by its operatives, adding that the suspect was arrested and is currently in police custody as the investigation continues.

“The search of Essien reportedly led to the recovery of a locally made shotgun loaded with a live cartridge. The weapon was allegedly hidden under his clothing,” said the statement.

John said investigators were working to establish where the firearm came from, why Essien was carrying it, and whether he had links with other people or criminal groups involved in the illegal movement and use of firearms.

The State Commissioner of Police, Baba Mohammed Azare, said the command would continue its efforts to remove illegal weapons from the streets and prevent violent crimes.

He warned those involved in the illegal possession and circulation of firearms that the police would continue to use intelligence-led operations, patrols and other lawful measures against them.

“We will continue our efforts to remove illegal weapons from the streets and prevent violent crimes. Those involved in the illegal possession and circulation of firearms should desist because we will continue to use intelligence-led operations, patrols and other lawful measures against them”, he stated.

The Commissioner of Police also urged residents to remain alert and provide the police with credible information about suspicious persons, illegal weapons and criminal activities.

He further assured members of the public that the identities of informants would be kept confidential.

“The Police Command remains committed to protecting lives and property and maintaining peace across Akwa Ibom State,” the CP said.