Police bust illegal firearms fabrication syndicate in Akwa Ibom

Akwa Ibom State Police Command says its operatives have busted an illegal firearms fabrication syndicate in the state and arrested three suspects in connection with the crime.

The Command’s Spokesperson, DSP Timfon John, who disclosed this in a statement in Uyo, on Monday listed the suspects arrested as Miracle Udo, 27 years, Edet Okon and Kufre Stephen, 35 years

‘She said, ‘Operatives of the Command, through a well-coordinated and intelligence-driven operation, arrested one Miracle Udo, 27yrs, a native of Cross River State but resident at Ikot Obio Offong, Ibesikpo Asutan Local Government Area, on 24th July, 2026. A locally fabricated double-barrel cartridge gun was recovered from the suspect at the point of arrest.

“During interrogation, the suspect confessed to being in possession of the firearm and identified one Edet Okon as the individual who supplied him with the weapon. Further investigation led to the arrest of Edet Okon. The Command’s investigation was further intensified, leading to the arrest of the suspected fabricator of the firearm, identified as Kufre Stephen, 35yrs, a native of Nsit Atai Local Government Area.

”A search conducted during the operation led to the recovery of several tools and materials suspected to be used in the illegal fabrication of firearms, confirming the existence of an illicit arms production operation.

“Investigations have further revealed the involvement of another suspect, believed to be a welder who regularly assisted in the fabrication process. Efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspects and dismantle every link in the criminal network.”