The Akwa Ibom State Police Command says its operatives successfully repelled a robbery attempt in Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area in the early hours of Wednesday, July 23, 2025, killing one of the suspects while two others escaped with gunshot wounds.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), ASP Timfon John, disclosed that the incident occurred at about 2:15 am at the Annex B Estate, located in Ikot Ator Village. According to her, three armed men had stormed a residential lodge within the estate, attempting to rob the occupants when police officers on patrol responded promptly to a distress call.
“Upon sighting the police operatives, the hoodlums opened fire, sparking a fierce exchange of gunfire. In the ensuing shootout, one of the suspects was gunned down, while the remaining two managed to escape, albeit with bullet injuries,” the statement read.
ASP John further revealed that one resident of the lodge was injured during the attack and is currently receiving medical care at a hospital. She assured the public that the victim is in stable condition and under close observation by medical personnel.
“During the operation, exhibits recovered at the scene included a cut-to-size locally fabricated shotgun, one expanded cartridge, one live cartridge, four assorted Android mobile phones believed to have been stolen, an industrial metal cutter, a cross bag containing N5,700 in cash, a wristwatch, an Echolac traveling box filled with clothing items, and a Qlink motorcycle bearing registration number UML 906 QX,” she stated.
The Police Spokesperson noted that the items retrieved from the suspects point to a calculated robbery operation, and investigations are already underway to determine the identities of the fleeing suspects and bring them to justice.
While commending the swift response of the officers involved in the operation, ASP John reiterated the Akwa Ibom State Police Command’s unwavering commitment to crime prevention and the safety of residents across the state.
“Our operatives remain on high alert, and efforts are being intensified to apprehend the fleeing criminals. The command assures all law-abiding residents of Akwa Ibom State that we are dedicated to protecting lives and property and will not relent in our fight against criminality,” she added.
She also appealed to members of the public, especially those living around Ikot Ekpene and its environs, to report anyone seen with suspicious gunshot wounds or unusual behaviour to the nearest police station, assuring that such information will be treated with utmost confidentiality.
The Command encouraged residents to remain vigilant and to collaborate with law enforcement agencies by providing timely and actionable intelligence that can aid crime prevention and enhance public safety.
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