- The Akwa Ibom State Police Command recently apprehended four suspects following an organized attack on Seplat Energy facilities in Ibeno.
- The tactical intervention prevented a group of 25 youths from destroying critical infrastructure after they had already demolished the company’s primary signage.
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command confirmed on Sunday, March 15, that officers arrested four suspects for vandalising Seplat Energy facilities in the Ibeno Local Government Area. Police Public Relations Officer, Timfon John, disclosed the arrests in a formal statement issued in Uyo.
According to the report, the command received a distress call from the Seplat Energy Security Control Room at approximately 1200 hours on March 11. The company alleged that a group of youths, led by a specific ringleader, maliciously damaged the firm’s signpost and attempted to breach the facility.
Immediately, operatives mobilised to the scene following a direct order from the Commissioner of Police, Baba Azare. Upon arrival, the police discovered that the mob had already forcefully pulled down and destroyed the company’s signage.
Furthermore, the group of approximately 25 hoodlums violently resisted the officers and attempted to obstruct the operation. Nevertheless, the police executed a coordinated tactical response and successfully took four suspects into custody.
Meanwhile, the police surveillance team currently trails the ringleader and other fleeing members of the group who remain at large. In addition, the PPRO condemned the acts of criminal intimidation and vandalism directed at corporate entities in the state.
The command warned the public, particularly youth groups, against taking the law into their own hands. As a result, the police reiterated their commitment to protecting lives, safeguarding investments, and ensuring a secure environment for all lawful businesses.