Police Arrest Man with Pistol in Akwa Ibom Palace Attack

On July 1, 2026, at 9:00 PM, the Akwa Ibom State Police Command arrested a 42-year-old man named Bassei Udo Idiong for allegedly attempting to storm a palace armed with a locally made pistol in Essien Udim Local Government Area. The police responded swiftly to a distress call, mobilizing to the scene based on credible intelligence.

DSP Timfon John, the police spokesperson, confirmed that the suspect was disarmed without incident and taken into custody along with the recovered firearm. The police emphasized their commitment to addressing security threats and preventing tragic outcomes.

Investigations are underway to determine the source of the firearm and the suspect's motives, with potential links to a criminal network. Baba Mohammed Azar, the Commissioner of Police, commended the officers for their prompt intervention and reiterated the command's dedication to eliminating illegal firearms and violent crime in the state.