Police arrest child trafficker, bust gun factory in Akwa Ibom

The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has apprehended a suspect, Promise Boniface, for allegedly abducting five children from a family in Obio Ibiono Local Government Area.

The children were safely rescued and reunited with their parents following a collaborative effort between local villagers and police operatives.

During questioning, Boniface claimed he found the children stranded in the rain but later admitted, “It is condition that led me to do it. This is my first time of doing this.” The police also recovered the motorcycle used in the crime.

In another operation on November 27, 2024, police officers thwarted a kidnapping attempt along the Ikot Ekpene-Uyo Highway. One suspect was killed in a gunfight, while others fled. Recovered items included a cut-to-size AK-47 rifle, ammunition, and charms.

Acting on intelligence, the police also uncovered an illegal gun-making factory. One suspect, David Nse Emmanuel, was arrested, and several firearms, including seven single-barrel and five double-barrel guns, were seized. Efforts are ongoing to apprehend the remaining suspects and trace their customers.

Additional suspects paraded include:

Joshua Linus, Isaac Archibong, and Christian Archibong: Arrested for robbing a POS operator.

A five-man gang from Aba, Abia State: Caught hijacking a Toyota Camry.

Kingsley Ernest Nelson: A repeat offender found with stolen vehicles and fake documents.

Recovered vehicles include a Toyota Corolla, Toyota Sienna, and Toyota Rav4.

Commissioner of Police Joseph Eribo assured the public of the command’s commitment to maintaining law and order in the state, emphasizing ongoing efforts to protect lives and property. All suspects will face charges in court as investigations continue.