The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested suspected vandals involved in the looting and theft of items from a truck that crashed along the Calabar–Itu Highway, following an intelligence-led operation. The incident occurred at Afaha, where the truck fell into a valley, prompting criminal elements to exploit the scene for theft. The police swiftly responded, arresting 19-year-old Adamu Hamza, a native of Maiduguri, who was found in possession of four stolen truck tyres. The arrest was made on Monday in Uyo, as confirmed by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John.
DSP John explained that intelligence reports alerted the police to ongoing vandalism and looting at the accident site. Operatives were immediately deployed to the area, leading to the recovery of stolen goods and the apprehension of the first suspect. Further investigation revealed the involvement of a tricycle operator, Anthony James, who was allegedly used to transport stolen items from the scene. Both suspects are currently in police custody, and authorities are actively pursuing other accomplices who fled the area.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, issued a stern warning to criminals, urging them to stop exploiting accident scenes for illegal activities. He emphasized that such acts undermine public safety and erode trust in the security system. CP Azare assured the public that the command remains committed to enhancing surveillance and implementing intelligence-driven policing across the state. These measures, he said, are designed to protect lives and property and to ensure that criminals face swift justice.
The police have also called on the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities, especially around accident sites or remote areas where crime may go unnoticed. The arrest of the suspects demonstrates the command’s ability to respond quickly to emerging threats and to act on credible intelligence. The recovered tyres are being processed as evidence, and forensic analysis is underway to determine the full extent of the theft. Authorities are also reviewing CCTV footage and conducting interviews with local residents to identify any additional suspects.
This incident highlights the ongoing challenge of post-accident crime in Nigeria, particularly along major highways where vehicles often carry valuable cargo. The Akwa Ibom Police Command’s swift action serves as a deterrent to would-be offenders and reinforces public confidence in law enforcement. As the investigation continues, the command remains focused on restoring order and preventing similar incidents in the future. The case is expected to set a precedent for how authorities handle crime linked to road accidents across the region.
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