Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has recorded another significant operational breakthrough with the recovery of a large cache of live ammunition and the arrest of multiple suspects linked to the incident.
In a press statement issued on Friday, January 30, by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, the Command disclosed that the operation took place on January 23, 2026, at about 11:00 p.m., during a routine stop-and-search exercise along the Calabar–Itu Highway.
According to the statement, police operatives intercepted a commercial bus with registration number ARR600ZY en route to Calabar. A thorough search of the vehicle led to the discovery of a carton containing 415 live cartridges concealed inside the bus.
The driver, identified simply as Ikenna, reportedly denied ownership of the ammunition, claiming it was being transported as a waybill consignment to an unidentified recipient in Calabar. During the questioning, a passenger known as “Excel” allegedly obstructed police officers by acting provocatively and interfering with the lawful search.
The situation escalated further when another passenger, identified as Bright, claimed to be an official of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC). Police said he failed to present any valid identification and allegedly joined in assaulting the officers during the operation. Both individuals were immediately arrested.
Further investigations led to the arrest of a 36-year-old suspect, Ndubisi Raphael, from Nyaje village in Akamkpa Local Government Area of Cross River State. He was apprehended in Calabar and taken into custody in connection with the recovered ammunition.
The statement noted that the Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, has ordered a comprehensive and discreet investigation to trace the source and intended destination of the ammunition, with a view to prosecuting all individuals found culpable.
The Command reiterated its resolve to curb the proliferation of illegal firearms and ammunition, warning members of the public against obstructing police officers in the lawful discharge of their duties. It also reassured residents of Akwa Ibom State of its continued commitment to maintaining peace, public safety, and security across the state.
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