By Uko Okon
Operatives of the Akwa Ibom Police Command have successfully thwarted an armed robbery attack in the early hours of Saturday.
It was gathered that one suspect was neutralized, and a firearm was recovered during the operation.
This was contained in a statement by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John on Sunday in Uyo.
The statement said the operatives received a distress call at approximately 2:25AM, alerting them to armed hoodlums operating in the Mbiokporo area, specifically along 1745 Hotel Road.
It said the police team was dispatched to the scene, where they engaged the suspects in a gun duel.
According to the statement, during the exchange of fire, one of the suspects sustained a gunshot injury and was later confirmed dead at the hospital.
Exhibits recovered from the deceased suspect include a locally-made pistol, one expended cartridge, and two live cartridges.
The statement reads, “On the 26th of July, 2025, the Akwa Ibom State Police Command successfully thwarted an armed robbery attack. One suspect was neutralized and a firearm recovered.
“At approximately 2:25AM, while on a routine weekend night patrol as directed by Commissioner of Police, Akwa Ibom State, CP Baba Mohammed Azare fsi, Operatives of the Command received a distress call reporting that armed hoodlums were actively operating in Mbiokporo area, specifically along 1745 Hotel Road.
“Acting swiftly on the intelligence, operatives were immediately dispatched to the scene. Upon arrival, the suspects engaged the patrol team, opening fire on the officers. A gun duel ensued, leading to one of the hoodlums sustaining a gunshot injury.
“The injured suspect was promptly transported to the hospital for urgent medical attention but was confirmed dead by the doctor on duty.
Exhibits recovered from the deceased suspect include: one locally-made pistol, one expended cartridge and two live cartridges.
“The Akwa Ibom State Command has launched a comprehensive manhunt to apprehend the fleeing suspects and recover any additional operational weapons. The public is urged to provide any information that may assist in these efforts,” it added.
