By Emmanuel Ntekim
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has recorded another breakthrough in its ongoing crackdown on violent crime with the recovery of firearms and the arrest of two suspects in Mkpat Enin.
Police operatives, acting on credible intelligence, raided a suspected criminal hideout on February 18, 2026, at about 1:00 p.m. in Ikot Ekop community.
The operation targeted a notorious armed robbery suspect, Abasiama Ekot, popularly known as “Dombary,” who had allegedly been terrorising residents of Mkpat Enin and surrounding areas.
According to the Command, the suspect had previously been linked to armed robbery incidents and was recently seen in a social media video allegedly inciting violence. However, he reportedly fled the scene before operatives arrived.
Two other suspects found at the premises were arrested after a brief chase. They were identified as Happiness Essien, 19, and Mathew Akpan, 31.
Items recovered from the hideout include one automatic pump-action rifle, one locally fabricated shotgun, four machetes, substances suspected to be Indian hemp, “ice,” and cocaine, as well as a generator.
Police authorities said the arrested suspects are cooperating with investigators and have provided useful information to assist in tracking down the fleeing suspect and dismantling any criminal network linked to him.
The Commissioner of Police assured residents of Mkpat Enin and the wider Akwa Ibom State that the Command remains committed to intelligence-driven operations aimed at safeguarding lives and property.
He urged members of the public to remain vigilant and continue to support the police with credible and timely information.
