The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested a 23-year-old man, Mfon Essien, after he was allegedly found carrying a loaded locally made shotgun in Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area.

Essien, a resident of Ikot Inyang Itak Village in Ikono Local Government Area, was intercepted at about 12:30pm on Sunday, September 6, 2026, along Ayah Road, off Uyo Road, Ikot Ekpene. Police said the arrest followed credible intelligence received by operatives of the command.

According to the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, operatives conducted a search on the suspect after intercepting him and allegedly recovered one locally made shotgun loaded with a live cartridge.

The firearm was reportedly concealed under Essien’s clothing at the time of the arrest. The suspect was immediately taken into custody, while the shotgun and ammunition were secured as exhibits.

Police said the arrest was part of ongoing efforts to tackle the proliferation of illegal firearms and prevent violent crime across Akwa Ibom State.

The command is now investigating how Essien allegedly obtained the firearm, why he was carrying it and whether he has any links with other individuals or criminal networks involved in the acquisition, movement or use of illegal weapons.

The investigation is expected to provide further details about the circumstances surrounding the possession of the firearm and whether the suspect was acting alone.

The State Commissioner of Police, Baba Mohammed Azare, reaffirmed the command’s resolve to remove illegal weapons from the streets and prevent them from being used to perpetrate violent crimes.

Azare said the command would continue to deploy intelligence-led operations, targeted patrols and other lawful measures against individuals involved in the illegal possession and circulation of firearms.

The commissioner also urged residents to remain vigilant and provide the police with credible information about suspicious persons, illegal firearms and criminal activities.

He assured members of the public that the identities of informants would be treated with utmost confidentiality.

The latest arrest comes as the Akwa Ibom Police Command intensifies efforts to recover illegal firearms across the state, with the command also linking its broader operations to efforts to prevent violent crime ahead of the 2027 general elections.