The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has recovered a large cache of live ammunition and arrested the owner of the consignment, alongside others accused of obstructing lawful police duties.
The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, disclosed this in a statement on Saturday. She said police operatives intercepted a commercial bus with registration number ARR 600 ZY on 23 January 2026 at about 11:00 pm during a routine stop-and-search operation along the Calabar–Itu Highway.
According to the statement, officers conducted a thorough search of the vehicle, which was travelling to Calabar, and recovered a carton containing 415 live cartridges. The bus was driven by a man identified as Ikenna, with several passengers on board.
During interrogation, the driver reportedly claimed that the ammunition did not belong to him, stating that he was transporting it as a waybill consignment to an unidentified recipient in Calabar.
DSP John said that during the operation, a commuter identified as Excel obstructed officers by engaging in provocative behaviour. Another passenger, Bright, allegedly joined in assaulting the officers after claiming to be an official of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) but failing to present valid identification. Police immediately arrested both individuals.
Further investigations led to the arrest of Ndubisi Raphael, a 36-year-old indigene of Nyaje village in Akamkpa Local Government Area of Cross River State, in Calabar. Police believe he owns the recovered ammunition.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police, Baba Mohammed Azae, has ordered a discreet and comprehensive investigation to determine the source and intended use of the ammunition, with a view to prosecuting all those found culpable.
The commissioner reaffirmed the command’s commitment to tackling the proliferation of illegal arms and ammunition and warned the public against obstructing police officers in the lawful execution of their duties. He assured residents that the police remain dedicated to maintaining peace and security across Akwa Ibom State.