The Akwa Ibom state police command has dismantled an illegal firearms fabrication workshop in Itam, Itu local government area, arresting two men suspected of producing and supplying locally made weapons to criminal groups.
Police spokesperson, Timfon John, disclosed this in a statement issued in Uyo on Tuesday, describing the operation as a major success in the command’s efforts to curb arms proliferation in the state.
“Credible intelligence revealed that one Aniekan Aniedi, 39, of Itam village, was actively engaged in the illegal production of locally fabricated firearms, which were being supplied to armed robbers and cultists in the region,” she said.
According to her, a team of detectives stormed the facility at about 6:57 p.m. on Thursday, October 24, 2025, leading to the arrest of Aniedi and his accomplice, Ubong Udofia, aged 35.
A search of the premises uncovered a cache of weapons and materials used in gun production, including three locally made guns, metal pipes, iron rods, copper wires, and flat metals designed for gun butts.
Police also seized several tools and machines used for fabrication, such as a welding machine, mini electric screwdriver, and electric filing machine, which were recovered as exhibits.
“The suspects are currently in custody and assisting with investigations aimed at identifying their clients and uncovering possible links to other criminal activities,” she added.
Commissioner of police, Baba Mohammad Azare, while commending the operatives, described the bust as a major blow to the illicit arms supply chain fueling violence across Akwa Ibom.
“This operation is a significant step toward dismantling the illegal arms trade that endangers lives and property in our communities,” Azare said.
He urged residents to continue sharing credible intelligence with the command, assuring that all information provided would be handled confidentially.
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