Operatives of the Akwa Ibom State Police Command have arrested three suspected cultists linked to the illegal possession and fabrication of firearms, uncovering a clandestine gun-manufacturing network operating within the state.
The breakthrough followed a coordinated intelligence-led operation aimed at curbing violent crimes across the state.
Confirming the development on Monday, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, said the operation began on July 24, 2026, with the arrest of a 27-year-old suspect from Cross River State residing in Ikot Obio Offong, Ibesikpo Asutan Local Government Area. A locally fabricated double-barrel cartridge gun was recovered from him during the operation.
According to John, the suspect confessed during interrogation to possessing the firearm and identified another individual as the supplier.
Acting on the information, operatives tracked down and arrested the second suspect, while sustained intelligence gathering subsequently led to the arrest of a third suspect believed to be the manufacturer of the firearm.
A search conducted during the operation uncovered several tools and materials allegedly used in the illegal production of firearms, confirming the existence of an illicit arms fabrication network. Police also disclosed that another suspect, identified as a welder who assisted in the manufacturing process, is currently at large.
Reacting to the operation, the Commissioner of Police, Baba Mohammed Azare, commended the professionalism and resilience of the operatives, reaffirming the command’s commitment to dismantling criminal syndicates involved in the circulation of illegal firearms and cult-related activities.
Azare 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 agencies by reporting suspicious persons and activities through appropriate channels.