The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has dismantled an illegal firearms fabrication factory in Itam, Itu Local Government Area, and arrested two suspects involved in producing locally made guns allegedly supplied to robbers and cultists.
The Command’s Spokesperson, DSP Timfon John, disclosed this in a statement issued in Uyo on Tuesday, noting that the arrests followed a targeted intelligence-led operation.
She said, “Credible intelligence had earlier indicated that Aniekan Aniedi, a 39-year-old male resident of Itam Village, Itu Local Government Area, was actively engaged in the production of locally fabricated and illegal firearms, which were being supplied to armed robbers and cultists in the region. Operatives of the Command stormed the factory on Thursday, October 24, 2025, at around 18:57 hours. The operation led to the arrest of the primary suspect, Aniekan Aniedi, and a second individual, Ubong Udofia, a 35-year-old male, believed to be an accomplice in the illegal enterprise.”
A thorough search of the factory led to the recovery of three locally made guns, five metal pipes, two iron rods, assorted copper wires, and two flat metals designed for fabricating gun butts. Also seized were key tools and machinery central to the illegal operation, including a welding machine, mini electric screwdriver, and electric filing machine.
DSP John said investigation has commenced to determine the full extent of the suspects’ network, identify their clients, and trace possible links to other criminal groups. She added that the suspects would be charged to court upon conclusion of the investigation.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammad Azare, commended the operatives for their swift and effective action, describing the operation as a major breakthrough against the illegal arms trade fueling violence and criminality in the state.
He urged residents to continue providing timely and credible information on suspicious activities, assuring that all reports would be treated with the highest level of confidentiality.
