Police Apprehend Three Suspects for Theft and Drug Possession in Akwa Ibom

The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested three individuals following separate targeted operations aimed at curbing local crime. Two of the suspects were detained in connection with a tricycle theft, while a third was caught in possession of illicit drugs and weapon replicas.

According to an official statement released by the command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, the arrests are part of an ongoing, intelligence-led crackdown on criminal networks across the state.

Tricycle Thieves Tracked Down in Itu

The first major breakthrough occurred in the Itu Local Government Area after a resident of Afaha Itam reported that his TVS tricycle, valued at approximately ₦1 million at the time of purchase, had been stolen from his residence.

Following the report, surveillance teams were deployed to monitor strategic transport parks and loading zones. The investigation yielded quick results:

Dominic Edet: Arrested by operatives who successfully recovered the stolen vehicle directly from his possession.

Asuquo Etim: Apprehended shortly after for purchasing the stolen vehicle. Preliminary police findings revealed that the tricycle changed hands for ₦1.8 million through an unidentified third party who remains at large.

Raid on Local Black Spots Yields Weapons and Narcotics

In a concurrent operation, police forces intensified stop-and-search routines alongside coordinated raids on identified high-crime zones.

During a raid at Ikot Ekwere Ubium Village, authorities intercepted 21-year-old Idorenyin Akpan. A physical search of the suspect uncovered a variety of illicit items, including:

* A wrap of crystal methamphetamine (locally known as “Ice”)

* A toy revolver pistol and a hammer

* A pair of pliers

* An animal horn and a small clay pot containing ritualistic materials

Commitment to Public Safety

The Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Azare, highly commended the operational teams for their vigilance and professionalism during these exercises. He reiterated the command’s strict stance against criminal elements and urged members of the public to continue assisting the police with credible, timely information to help secure the state.