Residents kill suspected armed robber in Akwa Ibom

A notorious suspected armed robber on the Akwa Ibom State Police Command wanted list, Mkpowo has lost his life following a confrontation with residents of Mbiabet Ikpe community in Essien Local Government Area of the state.

The command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, who confirmed this in a statement in Uyo on Thursday, said the incident happened on Wednesday at about 7:30 pm.

According to the statement, when the youths of the community allegedly attempted to apprehend him, he reportedly opened fire with his locally made pistol.

He was, however, overpowered by the enraged youths who reportedly gave him severe injuries on his head.

The statement added, “He was subsequently rushed to a hospital for medical attention, where he was confirmed dead. His remains have since been deposited in a morgue for preservation and further necessary procedures.

“Following the incident, a locally made pistol, one live cartridge and one expended cartridge were recovered from the suspect. Preliminary information identifies him as one of the criminal elements on the Police Command’s wanted list, whose criminal activities and hideout had been under sustained security surveillance.”

The statement said the Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, while commending residents for their support in providing credible intelligence, warned against violent confrontations with suspects especially where firearms are involved, stressing that suspected offenders should be apprehended, where safely possible, and promptly handed over to the Police for lawful investigation and prosecution.