The Cross River State Police Command, in its sustained effort to combat the proliferation of illegal arms and violent crime, has arrested a suspected gun runner, one Okon William “M”, aged 60 years, and recovered two (2) locally fabricated firearms in Odukpani Local Government Area of the State.
The arrest followed credible intelligence received by operatives of the Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Unit on the activities of a suspected arms trafficker within Ubanbat Community. Acting swiftly on the information, police operatives mobilized to the area and apprehended the suspect on 19th April, 2026, at about 1700 hours.
Upon arrest, the suspect was subjected to a thorough search, which led to the recovery of two (2) locally fabricated long guns concealed in his possession.
Preliminary investigation reveals that the suspect is involved in the illicit trafficking of firearms and had adopted covert methods to evade detection. He has also provided useful information aiding ongoing investigations into a wider network of illegal arms fabrication and distribution.
The suspect is currently in police custody and will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigation. Efforts are being intensified to apprehend other members of the criminal network and recover additional illegal arms.
The Commissioner of Police, Cross River State Command, CP Rashid B. Afegbua, psc, mnips, reiterates the Command’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the State. He urges members of the public to continue supporting the Police with timely and credible information through the Command’s emergency contact lines:
Control Room (Emergency):
07041777060, 07053355415
Further developments will be communicated in due course.
E-Signed:
ASP Eitokpah Sunday Akata, anipr, mnisma
Police Public Relations Officer
For: Commissioner of Police
Cross River State Command
Dated: 20th April, 2026
