…prosecute fake security alert creator
By Ime Silas
UYO — The Akwa Ibom State Police Command says it has arrested a suspected receiver and distributor of stolen mobile phones linked to an armed robbery syndicate, recovered 34 Android phones and other items, prosecuted a man for circulating a fake security threat, and launched statewide enforcement against vehicles with obscured number plates.
Commissioner of Police Baba Mohammed Azare, fsi, made the disclosure Tuesday, June 17, 2026, during a press briefing at the Command Headquarters in Ikot Akpan Abia, Uyo.
The press statement which was signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, Akwa Ibom State, DSP Timfon John, LLB, Anipr, on behalf of the Commissioner also noted that the operations were part of the Command’s “intelligence-led policing and proactive law enforcement operations” aimed at keeping Akwa Ibom among the safest states in Nigeria.
“We shall not relent in our efforts to ensure that criminals have no hiding place within our jurisdiction. Together, we shall continue to build a safer and more secure Akwa Ibom State,” CP Azare told journalists.
According to the Commissioner, operatives acting on credible intelligence arrested Musa Idris in connection with a recent armed robbery incident along the Calabar–Itu Road axis. Idris is alleged to be a receiver and distributor of stolen mobile phones for an armed robbery syndicate.
CP Azare disclosed that investigations revealed the suspect had been arrested previously in October 2025 for offences relating to armed robbery and possession of over 200 assorted Android phones suspected to be stolen.
Items recovered from Idris include thirty-four assorted Android phones, two button phones, one standing fan, one 80,000mAh power bank, one rechargeable table fan, one tricycle with Registration Number AFG 64 WO, one jack knife, and quantities of substances suspected to be illicit drugs.
“The recovered phones are reasonably suspected to be proceeds of armed robbery operations carried out by criminal elements operating within and outside Akwa Ibom State,” the CP stated.
He added that the suspect made useful statements and allegedly revealed the existence of a wider criminal network involved in moving and reselling stolen phones beyond Nigeria’s borders. “Efforts have been intensified to apprehend all other members of the syndicate currently at large,” Azare said.
“The Command remains steadfast in its resolve to confront criminality in all its forms and ensure that Akwa Ibom State remains one of the safest and most peaceful States in the Federation,” he stressed.
The police also announced the conclusion of investigations and prosecution of Akaninyene Udo, popularly known online as “AK Philo,” over a viral threatening message. Udo allegedly circulated the caption “Eket get ready for us” alongside an image of an armed bandit.
Following investigations, the Commissioner said the suspect was charged before a competent court and subsequently remanded in a Correctional Centre.
“The creation, publication, or dissemination of false security alerts and misleading information capable of causing public panic remains a criminal offence, and offenders will be prosecuted in accordance with the law,” CP Azare warned residents and social media users.
…Crackdown on covered, fake number plates begins
In line with directives from the Inspector-General of Police, the Command has commenced a statewide enforcement operation targeting vehicles operating with covered, altered, obscured, defaced, or absent registration number plates.
CP Azare said the exercise is aimed at enhancing public safety, strengthening crime prevention, and denying criminals the opportunity to exploit unregistered or concealed vehicles for criminal activities.
He urged all motorists to ensure their vehicles are properly registered and that number plates remain visible and compliant with existing regulations.
…IGP praised, officers to be commended
During the briefing, the Commissioner expressed appreciation to the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, PSC (+), NPM, for leadership and welfare interventions nationwide.
“I am particularly grateful for the provision of First Aid Boxes to Commands across the Federation, including the Akwa Ibom State Police Command. This thoughtful intervention demonstrates the Inspector-General’s commitment to the health, safety, welfare, and operational readiness of police personnel,” Azare stated.
He also announced that several officers of the Command would receive Certificates of Commendation for exemplary professionalism and dedication to duty, following public commendation in a viral social media video.
“Rewarding professionalism and integrity remains an important component of modern policing and serves as motivation for officers who continue to discharge their responsibilities with distinction,” he said.
Residents have been urged to continue providing the police with timely and credible information to support ongoing crime-fighting efforts across the state.
