Suspect Allegedly Stormed Monarch’s Palace Armed With Locally Made Pistol as Police Recover Weapon
Police in Akwa Ibom State have arrested a 42-year-old man, identified as Bassey Udo Idiong, for allegedly threatening to shoot a traditional ruler with a locally made pistol in Essien Udim Local Government Area.
According to the Akwa Ibom State Police Command, the suspect was arrested on Wednesday after a distress call reported that he had stormed the monarch’s palace armed with the weapon and allegedly threatened to kill the traditional ruler.
Police spokesperson Timfon John said operatives responded swiftly to the scene, professionally disarmed the suspect without incident, and recovered the locally made pistol.
The Command said the prompt intervention prevented what could have resulted in a tragic loss of life.
Investigations are ongoing to determine the source of the recovered firearm, the motive behind the alleged threat, and whether the suspect acted alone or had accomplices. Police confirmed that the suspect will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.
The arrest comes amid intensified security operations across Akwa Ibom State targeting violent crime, illegal firearms, cultism and drug-related offences.
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command reiterated its commitment to safeguarding lives and property and urged residents to continue providing timely information to security agencies to aid efforts in combating crime.
