Police Nab 60-Year-Old Suspect, Recover Locally Made Guns In Odukpani

The Cross River State Police Command has arrested a suspected gun runner and recovered illegal firearms during an intelligence-led operation in Odukpani.

Police authorities confirmed that operatives apprehended a 60-year-old suspect, identified as Okon William, during a targeted raid on April 19, 2026.

The arrest followed what officials described as “credible and actionable intelligence” indicating ongoing arms trafficking activities within Ubanbat Community in Odukpani Local Government Area.

According to the Command, officers attached to the Anti-Kidnapping Unit acted swiftly after receiving the intelligence, mobilizing personnel and executing a coordinated operation.

Police spokesperson ASP Eitokpah Sunday Akata stated that operatives reached the location at approximately 1700 hours and immediately secured the suspect without resistance.

Akata explained that officers conducted a detailed search on the suspect, leading to the discovery of two locally fabricated long guns concealed on him.

He emphasized that the recovery underscores the Command’s commitment to dismantling illegal arms networks fueling violent crimes across Cross River State communities.

“The suspect adopted covert methods to evade detection,” Akata said, adding that preliminary findings point to his involvement in illicit firearms trafficking.

Investigators disclosed that the suspect has begun cooperating with authorities, providing information that could expose a broader criminal network operating within the region.

Police sources involved in the investigation revealed that the intelligence gathered so far suggests a structured distribution chain linked to local arms fabrication.

An officer familiar with the case said, “We are analyzing leads that indicate multiple actors may be involved in production and circulation.

”The Command confirmed that the suspect remains in custody while investigators intensify efforts to identify and apprehend other members of the syndicate.

Authorities noted that the case highlights ongoing challenges related to the proliferation of illegal firearms, particularly locally manufactured weapons in rural communities.

Security analysts have repeatedly warned that such weapons often fuel kidnapping, armed robbery, and communal violence across parts of southern Nigeria.

Police officials said the Anti-Kidnapping Unit has expanded surveillance operations in neighboring communities to prevent further illegal arms movement.

Akata reiterated that the Command is leveraging both intelligence gathering and community collaboration to curb criminal activities in vulnerable areas.

He urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements, stressing that timely information significantly enhances operational success.

“The public plays a critical role in crime prevention,” he stated, noting that community cooperation contributed directly to the suspect’s arrest.

Police leadership assured that the Command will not relent in its campaign against arms trafficking and other violent crimes within Cross River State.

Commissioner of Police Rashid B. Afegbua reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property through proactive policing strategies.

Afegbua said officers remain on high alert and will continue to deploy intelligence-driven operations to neutralize threats across the state.

He emphasized that illegal firearms remain a major driver of insecurity, necessitating sustained enforcement and public collaboration.

“We will ensure that those involved in criminal networks face the full weight of the law,” Afegbua stated through the Command’s official release.

Authorities confirmed that the suspect will be formally charged in court upon completion of investigations currently underway by specialized units.

Police sources indicated that forensic examination of the recovered firearms may provide additional insights into their origin and manufacturing process.

• Retired Police Officers Protest at Presidential Villa Over Pension Scheme
• Israel Tightens Grip on Southern Lebanon as US Plans New Talks
• U.S. Reaffirms Strong Strategic Ties with Nigeria
• Political Crisis Looms in Romania, Coalition Party Withdraws Support
• Iran Peace Talks Uncertain as Ceasefire Deadline Nears

Investigators are also exploring potential links between the suspect and previously reported incidents involving illegal weapons within the state.

An intelligence officer disclosed that “early indicators suggest the suspect may have operated discreetly for an extended period without detection.

”The Command stressed that ongoing operations aim not only to arrest suspects but also to dismantle entire networks enabling illegal arms circulation.

Officials believe that targeting supply chains will significantly reduce the availability of weapons used in violent crimes across affected communities.

Security experts have long advocated for stronger monitoring of local fabrication sites often exploited by criminal elements to produce firearms.

Police authorities acknowledged these concerns and confirmed that surveillance of such locations has been intensified in recent months.

Residents of Ubanbat Community expressed mixed reactions, with some commending police efforts while others called for sustained security presence.

A community member, who requested anonymity, said, “We have seen improvements, but we still need continuous patrols to feel fully secure.”

Police officials assured residents that additional deployments would be considered based on evolving security assessments within the area.

Akata noted that intelligence sharing between communities and law enforcement remains essential for long-term crime prevention and stability.

He encouraged citizens to utilize emergency contact lines provided by the Command to report suspicious activities promptly and confidentially.

The Command listed its control room numbers as part of efforts to strengthen communication channels between the public and security agencies.

Authorities emphasized that information provided by citizens will be treated with utmost confidentiality to protect sources and encourage cooperation.

Police reiterated that proactive engagement remains a cornerstone of their operational strategy in addressing security challenges across the state.

As investigations continue, officials said further updates will be communicated to the public to ensure transparency and maintain public trust.

The Command concluded that sustained enforcement, intelligence gathering, and community partnership will remain central to combating illegal arms proliferation.