The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested four suspects in connection with the theft of four state-owned fire service trucks. This was disclosed by the state Commissioner of Police, Baba Muhammed Azare, during his maiden briefing at the command’s headquarters in Ikot Akpan-Abia, Uyo, on Monday.
Fire Trucks Leased to Multinational Companies
Azare revealed that the suspects had stolen the fire service trucks and transported them to Port Harcourt, Rivers State. Acting on credible information provided by a Good Samaritan, the police recovered the vehicles and uncovered the illegal operation.
Investigations showed that the trucks had been leased to multinational companies at a daily rate of ₦140,000 per truck, with the deal originating in 2021 and expected to end in 2024. The arrangement allocated ₦80,000 per truck per day to the link company and ₦60,000 to officials of the fire service.
“About two months before the expiration of the lease agreement, the command acted swiftly to recover the vehicles,” Azare said. He added that the suspects would be charged to court soon, while the trucks would be returned to the government for public use.
Arrests for Transformer Vandalism
In addition to the fire truck case, the police arrested two suspects linked to the vandalization of a transformer belonging to Sure Foundation Polytechnic in Ikot Atai, Ukanafun Local Government.
According to the commissioner, the suspects drained transformer oil valued at ₦800,000 and stole armored cables worth ₦3.5 million. Items recovered from the suspects include the transformer, armored cables, and items suspected to be charms.
Azare emphasized the command’s commitment to addressing vandalism, stating, “We have stepped up efforts to prevent these crimes and arrest those involved. Public infrastructure vandalism will not be tolerated.”
Rescue of Kidnapped Justice Ministry Director
The commissioner also highlighted the rescue of a director from the Akwa Ibom State Ministry of Justice, who was kidnapped alongside his niece by five armed men in December 2024.
Police operatives traced the kidnappers to a hideout in a forest near Ikot Ukpong Village, Abak Local Government. The victims were found unharmed in an abandoned soak-away pit.
“Our operatives conducted a thorough search of the forest, rescued the victims, and recovered the victim’s car, which had been abandoned along Etinan Road,” Azare said.
Additionally, the Toyota Sienna vehicle used in the abduction was recovered, and two suspects were neutralized during the operation. Two other suspects, identified as Ability Etim Samuel (45) and David Vincent Samuel (36), were arrested in connection with the crime.
Addressing Crimes Against Vulnerable Persons
The police also apprehended six suspects accused of raping a 13-year-old girl over three years. Azare reaffirmed the command’s zero tolerance for crimes targeting vulnerable individuals, vowing to ensure justice for all victims.
Police Commitment
Azare concluded by reiterating the police command’s dedication to safeguarding lives and property in Akwa Ibom. He urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities promptly to law enforcement authorities.
