Akwa Ibom Police Arrest Man With Loaded Locally Made Shotgun in Ikot Ekpene

Police in Akwa Ibom State have arrested a 23-year-old man found carrying a loaded, locally made shotgun in the Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area, in what officials describe as a breakthrough in efforts to curb the spread of illegal firearms.

The suspect, identified as Mfon Essien of Ikot Inyang Itak Village in Ikono Local Government Area, was arrested along Ayah Road, off Uyo Road, Ikot Ekpene, on Sunday, September 6, 2026, according to a statement from the Police Public Relations Officer, Timfon John, made available to journalists on Monday.

‘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 statement read.

‘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."

Police said the arrest followed credible intelligence received by operatives, and that a search of Essien turned up the weapon hidden beneath his clothing.

"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.

John said the suspect remains in police custody as investigators work to establish where the firearm came from, why he was carrying it, and whether he has links to other people or criminal groups involved in the illegal movement and use of firearms.

John described the arrest as a breakthrough in the command's sustained efforts to curb the proliferation of illegal weapons and prevent violent crime across the state.

The State Commissioner of Police, Baba Mohammed Azare, said the command would keep working to clear illegal weapons off the streets and warned those involved in the illegal possession and circulation of firearms to stop.

"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 said.

Azare urged residents to stay alert and share credible information with police about suspicious persons, illegal weapons and criminal activities, assuring them that informants' identities would be kept confidential.

"The Police Command remains committed to protecting lives and property and maintaining peace across Akwa Ibom State," he added.