THE Akwa Ibom State Police Command has launched an investigation following the recovery of an illegally possessed firearm and live ammunition from the residence of a suspect in Ikot Akpan Afaha Village, Uyo Local Government Area.
The development was disclosed by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, in a statement issued this morning.
According to the police, the operation was carried out on July 11 after intelligence reports alleged that the suspect, identified as Edet George, had been using a firearm to threaten members of his community.
During a search of the residence, officers recovered a single-barrelled gun along with eight rounds of live cartridges hidden within the premises.
The police said the operation forms part of ongoing intelligence-driven efforts to curb the proliferation of illegal firearms and improve public safety across the state.
Investigators are currently working to determine the source of the weapon, establish whether it was legally acquired, and ascertain if it had been used in the commission of any criminal offences.
The Command also revealed that the suspect’s wife, whose identity was withheld, told investigators that her husband frequently used the firearm to intimidate not only members of the community but also his own family, including herself and their children.
Police confirmed that the recovered firearm and ammunition have been taken into custody while investigations continue.
Reacting to the development, the Commissioner of Police in Akwa Ibom State, Baba Mohammed Azare, reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to tackling the spread of illegal firearms and ensuring that individuals who unlawfully possess or use weapons to terrorise others are brought to justice.
He added that the Command remains focused on protecting lives and property through sustained intelligence-led operations aimed at enhancing security across the state.
The police also referenced a similar operation carried out in June by the Abia State Police Command, where two suspects were arrested for unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition during a stop-and-search exercise.
