Akwa Ibom Police Uncover Underground Armory Fueling Cult Violence in Itu

Akwa Ibom State Police Command has dealt a significant blow to the illegal arms supply chain with the successful dismantling of a clandestine firearms fabrication factory operating in the Itam area of Itu Local Government Area. The operation, launched on Thursday, October 24, 2025, following targeted intelligence, led to the arrest of two individuals suspected of manufacturing weapons for criminal syndicates.

The Command Spokesperson, DSP Timfon John, confirmed the operation, stating that credible intelligence pointed to Aniekan Aniedi, a 39 year old male resident of Itam, as the primary suspect actively engaged in the production and supply of illegal firearms to armed robbers and cultists in the region. Operatives stormed the factory at around 18:57 hours, apprehending Aniedi alongside a second individual, 35 year old Ubong Udofia, believed to be an accomplice.

A comprehensive search of the illicit facility yielded a significant cache of dangerous materials and machinery central to the illegal production line. Recovered weapons included three fabricated locally made guns. The police also seized five pieces of metal pipes, two iron rods, assorted copper wires, and two flat metals specifically designed for fabricating gun butts. Tools vital to the operation, such as a wielding machine, a mini electric screwdriver, and an electric filing machine, were also confiscated as evidence.

Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammad Azare fsi, highly commended the operatives for their swift and effective action, calling the operation a major victory against the illicit arms trade that fuels violence and criminality in the state. The Commissioner urged the public to continue providing timely and credible information on suspicious activities within their communities, assuring that all tips would be treated with the utmost confidentiality. Investigation is currently underway to uncover the full extent of the suspects’ criminal network and identify their clientele. The arrested individuals will be charged to court immediately upon the conclusion of the investigation.