Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested a village head, Chief Edet, over alleged possession of an illegal firearm in Asik Ubofa, a fishing settlement in Effiat Clan, Mbo Local Government Area of the state.
In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, Timfon John, the arrest followed credible intelligence linking the 60-year-old traditional leader to unlawful possession of arms.
Acting on the information, the Commissioner of Police, Baba Mohammed Azare, ordered a swift operation to verify the claim and take appropriate action.
Operatives of the command subsequently carried out a coordinated raid on the suspect’s residence, where they recovered one AK-47 rifle along with two empty magazines.
The police spokesperson noted that the suspect has been taken into custody, while investigations are ongoing to determine how he came into possession of the weapon and to establish his intentions.
The statement further disclosed that efforts are underway to track down and apprehend any other individuals who may be connected to the case, as authorities intensify moves to curb illegal arms in the state.