By Frank Ulom
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, Okon William “M”, aged 60 years, and recovered two (2) locally fabricated firearms in Odukpani Local Government Area of the State.
According to a statement by ASP Sunday Eitokpah, Police Public Relations Officer, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, CP Rashid Afegbua, on Monday, 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 mobilised 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 has 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 the investigation. Efforts are being intensified to apprehend other members of the criminal network and recover additional illegal arms,” the statement said.
It added, “The Commissioner of Police, Cross River State Command, CP Rashid B. Afegbua, 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.”
