Operatives of the Akwa Ibom State Police Command have thwarted a planned armed robbery operation in Abak Local Government Area, neutralizing one suspect and recovering firearms and other items during a late-evening encounter on January 2, 2026.
Acting on credible intelligence, police were alerted that a notorious armed robbery gang intended to attack a petrol station along Ikot Ekpene Road by Ikot Ekang Junction in Abak. The gang was reportedly linked to a series of robberies targeting POS operators, petrol stations, and supermarkets in the area.
Police teams were deployed to the scene, and at about 7:47 p.m., approximately six suspects arrived and attempted to rob pump attendants. On sighting the police, the suspects opened fire, leading to a gun duel. One suspect was fatally wounded, while the others fled into a nearby bush on motorcycles. Some are believed to have sustained gunshot injuries.
A search of the area yielded the recovery of:
– Four locally made firearms
– Six live cartridges
– Two mobile phones
– A brown bag and wallet
– Four ATM cards
The deceased suspect, who was found with charms on his body, has yet to be identified and has been deposited at a mortuary.
Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, commended the officers for their bravery and professionalism, noting that the operation prevented the robbery and ensured no innocent lives or properties were lost.
An intensive manhunt is underway for the fleeing suspects. The police have urged the public, especially medical practitioners, to report anyone seeking treatment for gunshot wounds under suspicious circumstances.
