Akwa Ibom: Police recover stolen vehicle, arrest vandal

The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has announced a series of breakthroughs in its fight against crime, including the recovery of a stolen vehicle, the arrest of a notorious vandal, and a clampdown on illicit drug activities across the state.

In a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Timfon John, the Command confirmed the recovery of a coffee-brown Toyota Carina E with registration number UYY 351 DA along Aba Road, opposite the former SUA Hotel in Ikot Ekpene. The vehicle, suspected to have been stolen from the premises of a hospital in Uyo, was abandoned by the suspect, who fled upon sighting police operatives. Efforts are ongoing to track down the fleeing suspect.

Similarly, operatives of the Command arrested a 23-year-old suspected vandal, God’stime Emmanuel James, during an intelligence-led raid on his hideout at Midim Water Side. James, who had been on the wanted list for vandalising school facilities and private homes, was apprehended while several accomplices escaped into a nearby creek. Items recovered at the scene included a handbag containing dried leaves suspected to be cannabis, four door handles, a mini flashlight, and parts of damaged door locks.

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DSP John confirmed that James is currently in custody and urged victims of vandalism in the community to come forward, identify the suspect, and provide statements to aid prosecution.

In another development, the Command launched a crackdown on illicit drug trade in Uyo metropolis. The coordinated operation, carried out on August 18, led to the arrest of four suspects: Gideon Patrick Edet, Paul Joseph Effiong, Mfon Cletus Ikpe, and Gideon Edet Etim. A large quantity of substances suspected to be Indian hemp was recovered during raids on identified drug black spots.

The PPRO assured that investigations are ongoing, stressing that the Command remains committed to safeguarding lives and property. “The Akwa Ibom State Police Command will continue to act on credible intelligence to ri