A suspected militant has been arrested in Ibaka, Mbo Local Government Area, as part of a sweeping security operation launched by the Akwa Ibom State Police Command aimed at dismantling criminal networks operating across the state’s waterways and urban centres.
Commissioners of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, disclosed this on Tuesday, 4 November 2025, during a press briefing at the State Police Headquarters in Ikot Akpan Abia, Uyo.
According to Azare, police operatives, working in collaboration with Marine Hunters, arrested 27-year-old Samuel Geofrey, a native of Atakpere in Bayelsa State, who confessed to being part of a militant group involved in sea piracy and kidnapping.
Geofrey reportedly admitted that his rifle was kept with Kingdom Bane,the Village Head of Ine Eyoabasi Fishing Village, who fled upon sighting the police. A search of his residence led to the recovery of marine engines, generators, toilet fittings, boat parts, and personal effects believed to have been stolen from sea travellers.
“This marks a significant breakthrough in our sustained efforts to combat militancy, piracy, and other maritime crimes along the coastal communities. The suspect is in custody, and efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing Village Head,” the police commissioner said.
The police chief outlined other major achievements in recent weeks, including the dismantling of an illegal gun manufacturing factory in Itu Local Government Area, the arrest of armed robbers and cult leaders, and the recovery of stolen property and ammunition from various parts of the state.
At Ekiti Itam Village in Itu, two suspects were apprehended for producing locally made guns, while exhibits including metal pipes, welding machines, and fabricated weapons were seized. In Uyo, several suspected burglars and cultists were rounded up following complaints from residents and business owners.
Azare further revealed that the Command had intensified its crackdown on unlawful masquerade processions used as cover for robbery and extortion. One suspect, Solomon Edem, was arrested in Abak for allegedly disguising as a masquerade to attack victims.
The commissioner praised the cooperation of residents and the diligence of police officers, reiterating the Command’s commitment to ensuring public safety.
“There will be no safe haven for criminals in Akwa Ibom State,” “We are determined to sustain peace and security through proactive intelligence gathering and collaboration with communities,”Azare declared.
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has urged citizens to report suspicious activities to the nearest police station or via its emergency hotlines, assuring that all reports will be treated with confidentiality.
