Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
Operatives of the Nigeria Police Force in Akwa Ibom State have foiled what authorities describe as a suspected armed robbery plot and arrested a 27‑year‑old man found in possession of live ammunition and other crime‑related items, security officials said. The breakthrough was announced on Wednesday in a statement by the state command, underscoring intensified efforts to prevent violent crime and dismantle criminal networks within the state.
The suspect, identified as Wisdom Eyo, a native of Afaha Obong in Abak Local Government Area, was apprehended at about 4:50 a.m. on Tuesday following actionable intelligence received by security operatives. Officers acted swiftly on the tip‑off, moving to intercept alleged criminal activity before it could materialise into an attack.
During the arrest, police recovered three rounds of 9mm calibre ammunition and one round of 7.5mm ammunition from the suspect, along with a face mask, a pen knife, and large motor bearings. Items suspected to be charms were also seized, which security sources say could be linked to criminal concealment or psychological deterrent practices sometimes associated with violent gangs.
Preliminary investigation by the command suggests that the ammunition may have originated outside Akwa Ibom State, with indications that it was sourced from both Edo and Bayelsa states, heightening concerns about inter‑state movement of arms and collaboration among criminal elements. Authorities said Mr. Eyo has made useful statements that are aiding ongoing investigations, as detectives work to identify accomplices and uncover the broader scope of the suspected plot.
The state’s Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, said the arrest reflects the command’s intensified intelligence‑led policing strategy, which prioritises surveillance, rapid response and community cooperation to pre‑empt criminal attacks. Police also emphasised that the early morning operation may have prevented what could have been a violent robbery attempt, given the nature of the recovered ammunition and the time of the arrest.
A statement from the command reiterated that the suspect remains in custody as detectives continue their inquiries. The Commissioner of Police affirmed the command’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property across Akwa Ibom State and urged residents to remain vigilant, continue sharing credible intelligence, and support law enforcement efforts to disrupt criminal networks.
Police emphasised that arrests for unlawful possession of weapons and attempts to orchestrate armed robberies remain a priority in the state as part of broader strategies to enhance public safety and reduce violent crime.
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