Police Recover Explosives in Akwa Ibom Prison

The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has recovered explosive devices within the Ikot Ekpene Custodial Centre following a coordinated security operation.

The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfom John, who disclosed this in a statement on Monday in Uyo, said that the recovery had stopped an impending tragedy and the neutralised explosive devices at the centre.

John said that the breakthrough followed credible intelligence from correctional authorities regarding suspicious items found around the facility. She said that following the report, the Commissioner of Police, Baba Azare, ordered the deployment of the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit, BomPol Base 38, Uyo, alongside other tactical teams to secure the area.

Police Recover Explosives in Akwa Ibom Prison — High explosive devices recovered near Ikot Ekpene Custodial Centre in Akwa-Ibom State. Credit: AIT.

The police spokesman said that a coordinated search and clearing operation by the command led to the recovery of two 90mm high explosive rounds and a 45 cm length of burning fuse. She revealed that the police recovered one pair of pincers, one flat screwdriver, two pieces of 12mm iron chisels, and one 6cm iron conduit pipe.

“The EOD team professionally rendered the explosive devices safe, thereby neutralising any imminent threat and preventing possible loss of lives and destruction of critical infrastructure. The command has reinforced security around the correctional facility and its environs, with increased surveillance, access control, and continuous patrols to deter any further threats. Discreet investigation and technical analysis have commenced to determine the origin of the explosives, and to apprehend those connected to the dangerous act,” she said.

Furthermore, the PPRO reassured residents that the situation was fully under control and that no casualties had been reported. She urged members of the public to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activity in their neighbourhood to the nearest police station.

John warned that the command would not tolerate any attempt to weaken public safety or target critical institutions, while reassuring Akwa Ibom residents that the command remained proactive and ready to protect lives and property across the state.

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