Police arrest 10 suspects over ‘attacks on security operatives’ in Akwa Ibom

The Akwa Ibom police command says it has arrested 10 suspects in connection with the recent attacks on security agencies in Essien Udim LGA of the state.

In March, a police commander and two other officers were killed by hoodlums in Essien Udim LGA.

Weeks before, gunmen attacked and burnt down a divisional police station — the incident occurred days after suspected hoodlums attacked operatives of the quick response squad and burnt a police inspector while he was inside a patrol vehicle in the same LGA.

In a statement on Wednesday, Andrew Amiengheme, the state police commissioner, said the attacks on security operatives necessitated the formation of a joint task force (JTF), comprising the army, police, Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).

“The JTF raided Ntak Ikot Akpan, Abama and Ikot Akpan in Essien Udim, Obot Akara and Ikot Ekpene local government areas,” he said.

“A total of 10 suspects who are directly linked to the killings of security personnel and destruction of property were arrested and some items were recovered at different locations.”

According to NAN, he said four vehicles, four motorcycles, four AK-47 rifles, four G3 rifles, eight dane guns, 28 AK-47 magazines, and some cash were recovered in the raid.

The police commissioner called on members of the public who lost their vehicles recently to come with proof of ownership.

He also expressed appreciation to the Nigerian army and other security agencies for their support, and asked Akwa Ibom residents to go about their lawful duties without fear of molestation and always be vigilant.

He appealed to residents to always provide the police and other security agencies with useful information to ensure protection of lives and property.