The police command in Akwa Ibom says it has arrested a suspect, name withheld, for allegedly being in possession of firearms and substances suspected to be cannabis sativa.

The state’s police public relations officer, ASP Timfon John, disclosed this to journalists in Uyo on Tuesday.

Ms John said operatives arrested the suspect on a routine stop-and-search in the Ibiono Ibom area of the state.

“Operatives of the police command in Akwa Ibom, in its determined efforts to rid the state of criminals, arrested a suspect, who is a native of Ikot Obong village.

“He was found with firearms and substances suspected to be cannabis sativa while on a commercial motorcycle.

“When the duo were stopped and searched, an English Baretta Pistol with a defaced breech number was found in the possession of the passenger (suspect).

“Also found was large quantities of weed suspected to be Cannabis sativa concealed in his rainboot,” she said.

She said the items were all recovered and the suspect taken into custody.

Ms John said that upon interrogation, the suspect claimed that the firearms belonged to one of his friends.

According to her, the investigation is ongoing to nab other gang members.

She said the suspect would be charged to court upon completion of the investigation.

Ms John said the Commissioner of Police, CP Waheed Ayilara, reiterated the command’s unwavering commitment to ensure Akwa Ibom was safe and secured.

(NAN)