Security authorities in Akwa Ibom State have detained three individuals suspected of tampering with and stealing essential infrastructure cables in Eket Local Government Area, as part of a growing crackdown on economic sabotage.
The state police command confirmed that the arrests followed a targeted operation informed by intelligence reports, which indicated that vandals were active along Obiokpa Street during the early hours of Sunday.
One suspect was intercepted at the scene, while follow-up investigations led to the apprehension of two additional individuals believed to be connected to the operation.
Police spokesperson DSP Timfon John explained that preliminary inquiries suggested the suspects may have been operating as part of a coordinated network, unlawfully dismantling cables critical to communications and power distribution.
Recovered materials have been secured as the investigation continues to determine the full extent of the conspiracy and possible accomplices.
The Commissioner of Police, Baba Azare, reiterated that the force maintains a zero-tolerance policy for acts that endanger public infrastructure, warning that perpetrators would be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.
DSP John urged residents to remain vigilant and provide timely information to security agencies, emphasising that community cooperation is vital to safeguarding the state’s infrastructure and preventing disruptions that could affect both economic and social activities.
The operation marks one of several recent initiatives by the Akwa Ibom Police to clamp down on criminal networks targeting the state’s utilities, signaling a renewed commitment to protecting both public and private property.
