By Paulinus Nta, AKWA IBOM |
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested five suspects in connection with the abduction and murder of marine hunters working under the Ministry of Internal Security and Internal Waterways.
Bodies of the victims, who were kidnapped, killed, and buried in shallow graves, have been exhumed by the police.
The operation took place on Thursday, August 29, 2024, in Unyenghe, Mbo Local Government Area, following a tip-off received on August 18, 2024.
The tip revealed that the marine hunters, who had been abducted and killed, were buried within the community.
Acting on this information, the police swiftly launched a manhunt, leading to the arrest of five suspects: Anthony Archibong, 46; Emmanuel Emmanuel Otoyo, 18; Daniel Edet Okon, 26; Eniete Harry Tom, 34; and Joseph Okon, 44.
In addition to these arrests, the police apprehended the Village Head of Utit Antai, Chief Okon Asuquo Eteokpo.
He is alleged to be an accomplice and spiritual fortifier for the suspects. During the operation, the police recovered 15 live cartridges from the group.
A thorough search of the area led to the discovery of headless corpses in shallow graves, further confirming the gruesome nature of the crime.
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command reiterated its commitment to eradicating crime and criminal elements in the state.
They also appealed to the public to report any suspicious individuals or activities to the nearest police station, emphasising the importance of community cooperation in maintaining security.
