In a remarkable shift toward victim-focused policing, the Akwa Ibom State Police Command has intensified efforts to protect vulnerable populations while dismantling criminal networks.
At a press briefing held on Monday at the Command Headquarters, Ikot Akpan Abia, Uyo, DSP Timfon John, the Police Public Relations Officer, outlined a series of operations that highlight the Command’s proactive and compassionate crime-fighting strategy.
According to the police mouthpiece, in a week marked by impactful interventions, the command prioritized the safety and well-being of victims in distress.
He indicated that four children aged 2 to 12 were saved from traffickers in two separate operations, saying that the suspects, arrested in Obot Akara LGA and Abia State, had planned to exploit the children for profit.
“The victims are now safely reunited with their families, with counseling arrangements underway.
DSP John said beyond the arrests, the Police are ensuring the survivors receive emotional and psychological support.
According to him, the Command arrested a serial offender in Abak LGA and a pastor in Ibiono Ibom for defilement.
While the Command has been effective in apprehending offenders, its operations also focus on pre-emptive measures, by targeting suspected cult members in Uyo LGA, the Police recovered weapons and disrupted a criminal network tied to the Italian Mafia Secret Cult Confraternity.
“In an unusual case, a physically challenged man was arrested in Uyo for distributing substances suspected to be Indian hemp. This operation sheds light on unconventional criminal methods, prompting heightened vigilance.
DSP Timfon John emphasized that the Command’s recent achievements reflect an increasing partnership with local communities.
“Every tip from the public has the potential to save lives. We are grateful to the residents who trust us and work with us to prevent crime,” he said.
He explained that under the leadership of CP Baba Mohammed Azare, the Police Command is not just arresting offenders but also addressing the root causes of crime.
These he said the Command does through strengthening community relationships to foster trust and encourage information sharing and emphasizing quick response to distress calls, as seen in the armed robbery case resolved in Ibiono Ibom LGA
The third mode of tackling the root causes he said is by addressing infrastructure crimes, such as the arrest of transformer vandals in Mkpat Enin LGA, to prevent economic disruptions in communities.
The Police reminded residents of their role in crime prevention, urging them to report incidents promptly while avoiding mob actions. “Together, we can make Akwa Ibom a model of safety and justice,” DSP John reiterated.
This press briefing underscored the Akwa Ibom State Police Command’s evolving approach to policing, one that combines compassion for victims with strategic action against offenders, setting a standard for modern law enforcement in Nigeria.