Police Arrest Akwa Ibom Man for Alleged Theft of Five Children

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Uyo, Akwa Ibom State – The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has apprehended a suspect, Promise Boniface, for allegedly stealing five children in Obio Ibiono Local Government Area.

Boniface was paraded along with other suspects accused of various crimes at the State Police Command headquarters in Uyo. The Commissioner of Police, Joseph Eribo, confirmed that all five children were rescued unharmed and reunited with their parents.

Details of the Arrest

According to the Commissioner, Boniface was intercepted after a swift response by local villagers and police operatives, following a hot chase. The motorcycle allegedly used during the crime was also recovered.

When questioned, Boniface claimed he found the children stranded in the rain, but he confessed, “It is condition that led me to do it. This is my first time of doing this.”

Other Crime Updates

On November 27, 2024, police operatives engaged in a gunfight with armed men attempting to kidnap a victim along the Ikot Ekpene-Uyo Highway. The confrontation left one suspect dead, while others fled. Recovered items included:

• A cut-to-size AK-47 rifle
• Ammunition
• Suspected charms

In another operation, police raided a gun-making factory based on credible intelligence. The factory, used to fabricate and supply firearms to criminals, led to the arrest of one suspect, David Nse Emmanuel. While other family members involved escaped, the following items were recovered:

• Seven single-barrel guns
• Five double-barrel guns
• A steel double-trigger pistol
• Materials for firearm fabrication

Efforts are ongoing to apprehend fugitives and trace customers linked to the illegal gun trade.

Arrests for Armed Robbery and Vehicle Theft

The Akwa Ibom Police Command also paraded suspects involved in armed robbery and vehicle theft, including:

1. Joshua Linus, Isaac Archibong, and Christian Archibong – Arrested for robbing a POS operator and stealing cash and valuables.
2. A gang of five men in Aba, Abia State – Apprehended for hijacking a black Toyota Camry. Recovered items include three locally made pistols and charms.
3. Kingsley Ernest Nelson – A repeat offender arrested with stolen vehicles and fake car documents.

Recovered stolen vehicles include:

• A black Toyota Corolla (registration ETN 674AA)
• A Toyota Sienna (registration DUU 692NZ)
• A Toyota Rav4 (registration ETN 676AA)

Police Commitment to Safety

CP Joseph Eribo reiterated the Command’s dedication to combating crime and maintaining Akwa Ibom as one of Nigeria’s safest states. “We will continue to protect lives and property, ensuring the safety of all citizens and residents,” he assured.

Investigations are ongoing, and all suspects will be charged to court upon completion.

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