Police Recover 415 Live Cartridges, Arrest Suspect and Commuters in Akwa Ibom
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has recorded a major breakthrough in its ongoing efforts to curb the proliferation of illegal arms and ammunition with the recovery of 415 live cartridges along the Calabar–Itu Highway.
In a statement signed by DSP Timfon John, LLB, Anipr, Police Public Relations Officer, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, and made available to our correspondent in Uyo on Friday , the recovery was made on January 23, 2026, at about 11:00 p.m., when police operatives on routine stop-and-search duty intercepted a commercial bus with registration number ARR600ZY, en route Calabar.
A thorough search of the vehicle led to the discovery of a carton containing Four Hundred and Fifteen (415) live cartridges.
The bus was driven by one Ikenna, who, during interrogation, claimed that the ammunition did not belong to him but was being conveyed as a waybill consignment to an unidentified recipient in Calabar.
The Command further disclosed that during the operation, a commuter identified simply as “Excel” obstructed officers in the lawful execution of their duties by engaging in provocative conduct.
Another commuter, Bright, who claimed to be an official of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) but failed to present valid identification, allegedly joined in assaulting the police officers. Both individuals were immediately arrested.
Following preliminary investigations, the owner of the ammunition, Ndubisi Raphael, a 36-year-old indigene of Nyaje Village in Akamkpa Local Government Area of Cross River State, was subsequently arrested in Calabar and taken into police custody.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, Mnipr, fsi, has ordered a discreet and comprehensive investigation to determine the source and intended use of the recovered ammunition, with a view to prosecuting all those found culpable.
The Police Command reiterated its zero-tolerance stance against the spread of illegal arms and warned members of the public against obstructing police officers in the lawful discharge of their duties.
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command assured residents of its continued commitment to maintaining peace, public safety, and security across the state.
