Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested two suspected illegal gun makers and recovered 15 firearms during a coordinated raid on suspected weapons production and repair sites in Okobo and Eket Local Government Areas. The operation, conducted in the early hours of June 2, was based on intelligence reports aimed at curbing the proliferation of small and light arms across the state. Police operatives, drawn from the Command’s Counter Violent Crime and Rescue Unit (VCRU), executed the raid at approximately 3:00 a.m. under the supervision of senior officers. The swift action targeted known locations linked to the illegal fabrication and repair of firearms.
According to security analyst Zagazola Makama, who shared details of the operation on X, the recovered weapons included three English double-barrel guns, two English single-barrel guns, and ten locally fabricated single-barrel guns. In addition, authorities seized two iron barrels, two gas cylinders, two toolboxes containing equipment used in gunmaking, and one live cartridge. These items are believed to have been used in the production and maintenance of illegal firearms. The operation underscores ongoing efforts to dismantle networks involved in arms trafficking and unlicensed weapon manufacturing in the region.
The two suspects apprehended were identified as Effiong Okon Ekpenyong, 39, from Oti Oro Village in Okobo LGA, and Godwin Ebong Nduaesa, 78, of No. 20 St. Gregory Road in Eket LGA. Both are now in police custody as investigations continue. Police sources indicated that the suspects were directly linked to the recovered exhibits and are being interrogated to uncover further details about their operations. Authorities are also working to identify and arrest other members of the suspected arms manufacturing network.
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has reaffirmed its commitment to combating illegal arms production and enhancing internal security. The raid is part of broader initiatives to reduce gun violence, curb armed robbery, and ensure public safety across the state. With the increasing threat posed by easily accessible firearms, law enforcement agencies are intensifying surveillance and intelligence-driven operations. The successful recovery of weapons and arrest of suspects sends a strong message to others involved in similar criminal activities.
This crackdown highlights the importance of intelligence-led policing in addressing security challenges. As investigations unfold, more information is expected to emerge about the extent of the illegal arms network. The police remain vigilant and proactive in their efforts to maintain peace and order in Akwa Ibom State. The operation serves as a reminder that the production and distribution of unauthorized firearms will not be tolerated.
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