Police foil planned kidnap operation, recover arms in Akwa Ibom

Police in Nigeria's Akwa Ibom State say information from members of the public helped them disrupt a planned kidnapping operation near Oron.

Timfon John, the state police spokesperson, said officers carried out a joint intelligence-led operation at a suspected criminal camp along the Calabar-Oron channel after receiving reports of a possible kidnapping around the Oron area.

The operation produced a pump-action gun, two cartridges and a white rope that police suspect was intended for criminal use. Officers also recovered two speedboats, three 200-horsepower outboard engines and one 15-horsepower engine. Police said they documented the items and placed them in safe custody for investigation.

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The strategy is aimed at identifying, disrupting and dismantling criminal networks before they are able to implement their plans.

John said the operation reflected the command's continuing proactive policing strategy. “The strategy is aimed at identifying, disrupting and dismantling criminal networks before they are able to implement their plans.”

She said marine police remained on heightened alert across strategic waterways and coastal communities. The command said it was focused on protecting residents, boat operators, fishers and other waterway users, while denying criminals the use of waterways in Cross River as operational corridors, hideouts or escape routes. John added that Commissioner of Police Baba Azare praised officers for their professionalism, courage and use of actionable intelligence.

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The commissioner of police is happy, the men are working gallantly. He is happy at their display of professionalism, courage and actionable intelligence.