Operatives of the Akwa Ibom State Police Command have arrested three suspected cultists linked to the illegal possession and fabrication of firearms, while uncovering a clandestine gun-manufacturing network operating within the state.
The breakthrough followed a coordinated intelligence-led operation aimed at curbing violent crimes and the proliferation of illegal weapons across Akwa Ibom.
In a statement issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, the police said the operation led to the arrest of 27-year-old suspect, a native of Cross River State residing in Ikot Obio Offong, Ibesikpo Asutan Local Government Area, on July 24, 2026.
According to the statement, a locally fabricated double-barrel cartridge gun was recovered from the suspect at the time of his arrest.
During interrogation, the suspect reportedly confessed to possessing the firearm and named one suspect as the person who supplied him with the weapon.
Acting on the information, investigators tracked down and arrested the second suspect, further expanding the scope of the investigation.
The police said sustained intelligence gathering subsequently led to the arrest of another suspect, a native of Nsit Atai Local Government Area, who was identified as the suspected manufacturer of the firearm.
A search conducted during the operation led to the recovery of several tools and materials believed to have been used in the illegal production of firearms, confirming the existence of an illicit arms fabrication network.
Further investigations revealed the involvement of another suspect, said to be a welder who regularly assisted in the fabrication process. The suspect is currently at large, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend him and dismantle the remaining elements of the criminal network.
Commenting on the operation, the Commissioner of Police in Akwa Ibom State, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, commended the professionalism, vigilance and resilience displayed by the operatives involved.
He reiterated the command’s commitment to identifying, dismantling and prosecuting criminal syndicates involved in the circulation of illegal firearms, cult-related activities and other violent crimes across the state.
The police commissioner also appreciated members of the public for providing timely and credible information that aided the operation, urging residents to remain vigilant and continue supporting law enforcement efforts by reporting suspicious persons and activities through appropriate channels.
The command assured residents that it would sustain intelligence-driven operations aimed at enhancing public safety and keeping criminal elements off the streets.
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