The Akwa Ibom Police Command has arrested a suspected armed robber, Inimfon, and recovered two locally made pistols and two machetes from his residence in Ibiono Ibom local government area. The arrest was made following a distress call on September 14, 2026, after Inimfon allegedly attacked a policeman and attempted to dispossess him of his bicycle at Ikot Ekweng village.
According to the police, operatives on vehicular patrol were directed to the community at about 5 am following a report of a violent attack. On arrival, they met Inspector Henry, who stated that he had been attacked by Inimfon while attempting to prevent him from taking his bicycle. The suspect allegedly wielded a machete and inflicted an injury on the inspector's right hand before fleeing the scene.
Police operatives launched a manhunt for Inimfon and traced him to his residence, where he was arrested. A search of the premises led to the recovery of the two locally made pistols and two machetes suspected to be in his possession. The police said detectives had commenced an investigation to determine the source of the firearms and establish whether the weapons had been used in other criminal activities.
The police are also probing possible links between Inimfon and other criminal elements operating within and outside Ibiono Ibom. The suspect remains in police custody, while the recovered weapons have been secured as exhibits. The investigation aims to uncover the extent of Inimfon's involvement in criminal activities and identify any potential accomplices.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, commended the operatives for their prompt response and professionalism in apprehending the suspect. Azare's commendation highlights the police command's efforts to enhance security and tackle crime in the state. The arrest and recovery of the firearms and machetes demonstrate the police's commitment to maintaining public safety.
The incident underscores the need for continued vigilance and cooperation between law enforcement and the community to prevent and combat crime. The police command encourages residents to report any suspicious activities or information that may lead to the apprehension of other criminals. The public's support is crucial in helping the police to effectively address security challenges in the area.
The suspect's arrest and the recovery of the locally made pistols and machetes have boosted the police command's efforts to curb the proliferation of small arms and tackle armed robbery in Akwa Ibom. The police will continue to work to ensure the safety and security of residents in the state.
Key points
- The police arrested a suspected armed robber, Inimfon, and recovered two locally made pistols and two machetes in Akwa Ibom's Ibiono Ibom local government area.
- The arrest was made following a distress call after Inimfon allegedly attacked a policeman and attempted to dispossess him of his bicycle.
- The police are investigating the source of the firearms and Inimfon's possible links to other criminal elements.