Akwa Ibom Police Arrest Suspect With 36 Recovered Phones, Prosecute Man Over Alleged False Security Alert
By Ogenyi Ogenyi, Uyo
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested a suspect and recovered 36 mobile phones believed to be linked to criminal activities as part of ongoing efforts to combat crime in the state.Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Azare, disclosed this during a press briefing in Uyo on Wednesday.
According to the commissioner, the suspect, Musa Idris, was arrested following intelligence-led operations after a recent robbery incident along the Calabar–Itu Road corridor. Police recovered 34 Android phones, two button phones, a tricycle, a power bank, two rechargeable fans, a jackknife and substances suspected to be illicit drugs.Azare said the recovered phones are suspected to be stolen property and that investigations are ongoing.
He added that information obtained from the suspect has led investigators to examine possible links to a wider network involved in the movement and resale of stolen mobile devices. The police commissioner also announced the prosecution of a suspect, Akaninyene Udo, popularly known online as “AK Philo,” over the alleged dissemination of false security information.
According to Azare, investigations were concluded and the suspect was arraigned before a court, which ordered his remand pending further proceedings. He warned that the creation or circulation of false security alerts capable of causing public panic is an offence punishable under the law.
The commissioner further announced the commencement of a statewide enforcement exercise against vehicles operating with covered, altered, obscured, defaced or missing registration number plates, describing the initiative as part of efforts to strengthen security and crime prevention. Azare also presented certificates of commendation to police officers recognised for professionalism and exemplary service.
