Operatives of the Akwa Ibom State Police Command have arrested a 29-year-old man, *Otuekong Enoidem*, in connection with an alleged kidnapping and murder in Nsit Ubium Local Government Area.
The suspect, an indigene of Akai Ubium Village, was apprehended while allegedly attempting to collect a *N3 million ransom* from the victim’s family, days after the victim was reported dead.
The State Police Public Relations Officer, *DSP Timfon John*, said in a statement on Saturday that the arrest followed a sustained intelligence-led operation to track and apprehend those behind the crime.
According to the police, a key breakthrough was the recovery of the victim’s mobile phone from the suspect.
“Significantly, during the operation, the mobile phone belonging to the victim and allegedly used by the kidnappers to communicate ransom demands was recovered from the suspect,” DSP John stated.
The command described the phone as “a critical piece of evidence” that would help investigators establish the circumstances of the crime and identify other members of the alleged syndicate.
The Commissioner of Police, *CP Baba Azare*, commended the operatives for their diligence, courage and professionalism in carrying out the operation.
He assured residents that the command would continue to deploy intelligence-led policing, strategic surveillance and sustained operational pressure against kidnappers and other criminal elements.
“There will be no safe haven for criminals in Akwa Ibom State,” CP Azare said. “Those involved in kidnapping, murder and other violent crimes will be pursued and brought to justice in accordance with the law.”
The police also urged members of the public to remain vigilant and provide credible and timely information to security agencies, noting that community cooperation remains crucial to crime prevention and detection.
“The command assures the people of Akwa Ibom State that the safety and security of lives and property remain its foremost priority. Further developments will be communicated as the investigation progresses,” the statement added.
This story was first reported by Channels TV.
