Operatives of the Akwa Ibom State Police Command have foiled an attempted bomb attack at the Ikot Ekpene Custodial Centre, averting what could have been a deadly incident.
In a statement issued late on Monday, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, said the operation was triggered by intelligence provided by authorities of the correctional centre, prompting immediate action by security forces.
The Command disclosed that high explosive ordnance was recovered within the facility following a swift response to credible intelligence.
DSP John explained that upon receiving the report, the Commissioner of Police, Baba Azare, ordered the deployment of the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit from BomPol Base 38, Uyo, alongside other tactical teams to secure the area.
She revealed that a coordinated search and sweep operation within the facility led to the recovery of dangerous items, including two 90mm high explosive rounds, a 45cm burning fuse, a pair of pincers, a flat screwdriver, two 12mm iron chisels, and a 6cm conduit iron pipe.
“The EOD team professionally rendered the explosive devices safe, thereby neutralising any imminent threat and preventing possible loss of lives and destruction of critical infrastructure,” she stated.
The Command added that security has since been tightened around the custodial centre and its environs, with enhanced surveillance, strict access control, and sustained patrols aimed at preventing further threats.
Police authorities also confirmed that investigations are ongoing to determine the source of the explosives and to identify and apprehend those responsible for the plot.
Reassuring residents, the Commissioner of Police said the situation is fully under control, with no casualties recorded, urging the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements.
The Command further warned criminal elements against targeting critical infrastructure, stressing that Akwa Ibom remains hostile to crime and criminality.
