Akwa Ibom Police Bust Vandalism Ring, Recover Looted Equipment
Police Intensify Crackdown on Infrastructure Vandalism in Akwa Ibom
Two Suspects Arrested in Separate Incidents
THE Akwa Ibom State Police Command has recorded another breakthrough in its campaign against infrastructure vandalism with the arrest of two suspects linked to separate theft and vandalism cases across the state.
Announcing the development in a statement issued in Uyo, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, said the arrests followed intelligence-led operations that also resulted in the recovery of stolen public property.
She noted that the Command remains committed to curbing criminal activities that threaten public infrastructure and economic development.
Community Tip-Off Leads to Arrest
According to the police, one of the suspects was arrested after a vigilant resident alerted security operatives to ongoing vandalism at Akwa Ibom State Polytechnic, Ikot Osurua.
Officers who responded to the distress call apprehended the suspect and recovered aluminium window frames and electrical cables allegedly removed from one of the institution’s buildings.
Investigators said the suspect admitted to involvement in the crime during questioning, while further investigations continue.
Police Recover Stolen Machine
In a separate incident, another suspect was arrested for allegedly stealing an industrial block-moulding machine vibrator from the Ikot Ekpene International Market construction site located along the CalabarโItu Road.
Police successfully recovered the machine and have launched a manhunt for other suspected accomplices believed to have escaped.
The Command expressed optimism that those still at large would soon be brought to justice.
Residents Encouraged to Stay Vigilant
The Police Command reaffirmed its determination to tackle vandalism, theft and other crimes affecting public assets throughout Akwa Ibom State.
It called on residents to remain security conscious and continue partnering with law enforcement agencies by providing credible and timely information capable of preventing criminal activities.
According to the Command, sustained collaboration between the police and members of the public remains essential to protecting critical infrastructure and ensuring safer communities.
