By Ayomide Otitoju
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has recovered a large cache of live ammunition and arrested a suspect, alongside others who obstructed officers during the operation, the command confirmed.
In a statement on Monday, Police Public Relations Officer DSP Timfon John said the discovery followed a routine stop-and-search patrol along the Calabar–Itu Highway on January 23, 2026, at around 11:00 p.m.
“Operatives intercepted a commercial bus with registration number ARR600ZY en route to Calabar. During a thorough search of the vehicle, a carton containing 415 live cartridges was recovered,” the statement read. The bus was driven by one Ikenna, with passengers on board. The driver claimed the ammunition was being transported as a waybill consignment for an unidentified recipient in Calabar.
DSP John added that a commuter, identified as Excel, obstructed police officers during the operation, engaging in provocative behavior. Another commuter, Bright, who claimed to be an official of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) but failed to produce valid identification, reportedly joined in assaulting the officers.
Further investigations led to the arrest of Ndubisi Raphael, a 36-year-old from Nyaje village in Akamkpa LGA, Cross River State, in Calabar. He was taken into police custody for questioning.
State Commissioner of Police Baba Mohammed Azae has ordered a discreet and thorough investigation to determine the source and intended use of the recovered ammunition, with a view to prosecuting all responsible parties.
He also reiterated the command’s commitment to combating illegal arms proliferation and warned the public against obstructing police officers in the lawful execution of their duties. The commissioner assured residents that the police remain dedicated to maintaining peace, public safety, and security across Akwa Ibom State.
