The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has thwarted an alleged attempt by the militant faction of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) to destabilize the region.
Authorities revealed that a group of militants was transporting dangerous weaponry into the state, preparing for a planned offensive.
The apprehension occurred at the border between Akwa Ibom and Abia States, specifically in the Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area.
According to ASP Timfon John, the Police Public Relations Officer, the intervention came after actionable intelligence from local residents.
The police acted on a tip-off, leading to an intensive patrol operation.
During this operation along Stadium Road in Abiakpo Edem Inyang Village, officers flagged down a Lexus Jeep with the registration number KUJ 886 FF.
Upon noticing the police, two young men exited the vehicle and fled into a nearby forest.
A search of the vehicle yielded significant findings: an AK-47 rifle loaded with ammunition, a locally made long-range pistol, a cartridge, multiple vehicle number plates, ATM cards from Zenith and Access Banks, a driver’s license, black clothing, bags suspected to contain Indian hemp, and a flashlight.
Despite efforts to apprehend the fleeing suspects, including a search of the surrounding forest with the help of local youths, no arrests have been made yet.
The police remain committed to capturing the suspects and their accomplices.
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command is urging residents to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activities to authorities.
The police reaffirmed their dedication to maintaining security in the state and deterring criminal activities.
