POLICE ARREST 23-YEAR-OLD WITH LOADED SHOTGUN IN AKWA IBOM

The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested a 23-year-old man, identified as Mfon Essien, after he was allegedly found carrying a locally made shotgun loaded with a live cartridge in Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area. Essien, who is from Ikot Inyang Itak Village in Ikono Local Government Area, was arrested around 12:30pm on Sunday, September 6, 2026, along Ayah Road, off Uyo Road, Ikot Ekpene.

The arrest followed what the police described as credible intelligence received by its operatives. According to the state Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, officers intercepted Essien and conducted a search, during which they allegedly discovered the locally manufactured firearm concealed beneath his clothing. The weapon, which had a live cartridge loaded into it, was immediately taken into police custody as an exhibit while the suspect was arrested for further questioning.

Police authorities said the development formed part of ongoing efforts to prevent the proliferation and illegal movement of firearms within the state. Investigators are now working to establish where the weapon came from and the circumstances surrounding Essien’s possession of it. The command said particular attention would be paid to determining whether the suspect obtained the firearm from another individual or group involved in the illegal acquisition, movement or use of weapons.

Essien remains in police custody as interrogation and further investigations continue. The police have not indicated that he has been formally charged with any offence at this stage, while the outcome of the investigation is expected to determine the next legal steps. Authorities are also expected to establish whether the incident is an isolated case or connected to a wider network involved in the circulation of illegal firearms in the state.

The Akwa Ibom Police Command reiterated its commitment to tackling illegal firearms and other security threats across the state, while urging residents to provide credible information that could assist security agencies in identifying individuals involved in the possession, movement or distribution of illicit weapons.