The police command in Akwa Ibom State said on Thursday that it detained two armed robbery suspects and recovered one automatic rifle in the Mkpat Enin area of the state.

The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Timfon John, said in a statement in Uyo that the breakthrough followed reliable intelligence from the public.

Ms John said that operatives of the command carried out a targeted raid on the hideout of a notorious armed robbery suspect at Mkpat Enin on Wednesday.

She said that upon sighting the operatives, the principal suspect fled the scene and evaded being apprehended.

The PPRO said that two suspects found on the premises were apprehended after a brief chase by police.

She said that during the operation, one automatic pump-action rifle, a locally fabricated shotgun, four machetes, substances suspected to be ‘hemp’ and other illicit drugs were recovered.

The police spokesman said that the suspects had provided useful information about the gang’s operations.

“The command is taking steps to apprehend the fleeing principal suspect and dismantle any criminal network connected to him,” she said.

She urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements around their neighbourhood to the police.

(NAN)