In a continued effort to maintain safety and security for residents, the Akwa Ibom State Police Command, on Friday, foiled a significant armed robbery operation in Abak Local Government Area, resulting in the neutralisation of one suspect and the recovery of firearms and ammunition.
According to a statement released by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, on Saturday, the police acted on credible intelligence received on January 2, 2026 which indicated that a notorious gang of armed robbers, linked to a series of recent heists targeting Point-of-Sale (POS) operators, petrol stations, and supermarkets in Abak LGA and surrounding areas, was planning to rob a petrol station located along Ikot Ekpene Road near Ikot Ekang Junction, Abak LGA.
“Upon receipt of this intelligence, police operatives were immediately mobilised and deployed to the location.
“At about 1947 hours, the criminal gang, numbering approximately six (6) armed men, arrived at the area and attempted to rob the pump attendants. Upon sighting the police team, a gun duel ensued.
“During the exchange of fire, one of the armed robbers was fatally wounded, while the remaining members of the gang fled the scene, running into a nearby bush and escaping via motorcycles. Information at our disposal suggests some of the fleeing suspects sustained serious gunshot injuries.
“A thorough combing of the area led to the recovery of the following items:
• Four (4) locally made guns
• Six (6) live cartridges
• One Samsung phone
• one ITEL phone
• One brown bag
• One wallet
• four ATM
The statement noted that the remains of the neutralised suspect, whose identity has not yet been established, were discovered with charms attached and have since been removed and taken to a mortuary.
It also noted that the Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, commended the officers involved for their courage, quick response, and professionalism, which successfully halted the robbery and ensured the safety of innocent lives and property in the vicinity during the operation.
“He (Baba Muhammed Azare) further assures the public that an intensive manhunt is ongoing to apprehend the fleeing members of the gang.
“The Command remains resolute in its commitment to the protection of lives and property and urges residents to continue to support the Police with timely and credible information.
“Members of the public, particularly medical practitioners, are encouraged to report any individual coming for treatment of gunshot wounds under suspicious circumstances. All information provided will be treated with utmost confidentiality”, the statement added.
