23-year-old arrested with loaded shotgun in Akwa Ibom

The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has taken a 23-year-old man into custody after he was allegedly found carrying a loaded locally made shotgun in Ikot Ekpene.

The suspect, identified as Mfon Essien of Ikot Inyang Itak Village in Ikono Local Government Area, was arrested on Sunday, September 6, 2026, along Ayah Road, off Uyo Road, Ikot Ekpene.

The Police Public Relations Officer, Timfon John, disclosed this in a statement made available to journalists on Monday, describing the arrest as a significant development in the command’s efforts to tackle the spread of illegal firearms and violent crime in the state.

The statement read, “The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested a 23-year-old man with a loaded locally made shotgun in Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area of the state.

“The suspect, identified as Mfon Essien from Ikot Inyang Itak Village in Ikono Local Government Area, was arrested along Ayah Road, off Uyo Road, Ikot Ekpene, on Sunday, September 6, 2026.”

John said police operatives acted on credible intelligence before apprehending the suspect, who remains in custody while investigations continue.

According to the command, a search conducted on Essien resulted in the recovery of a locally manufactured shotgun containing a live cartridge.

“The search of Essien reportedly led to the recovery of a locally made shotgun loaded with a live cartridge. The weapon was allegedly hidden under his clothing,” the statement said.

Police investigators are now working to determine the source of the firearm, the reason the suspect was allegedly carrying it and whether he has any connection with individuals or criminal networks involved in the illegal circulation and use of firearms.

The Commissioner of Police in the state, Baba Mohammed Azare, said the command would sustain its campaign against illegal weapons and violent crime.

He warned individuals involved in the possession or circulation of unlawful firearms to desist, stressing that the police would continue to deploy intelligence-led operations, patrols and other lawful measures.

“We will continue our efforts to remove illegal weapons from the streets and prevent violent crimes. Those involved in the illegal possession and circulation of firearms should desist because we will continue to use intelligence-led operations, patrols and other lawful measures against them”, he stated.

Azare also called on residents to remain vigilant and assist the police by providing credible information on suspicious individuals, illegal firearms and criminal activities.

He assured members of the public that information supplied by informants would be treated confidentially.

“The Police Command remains committed to protecting lives and property and maintaining peace across Akwa Ibom State,” the CP said.

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