The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested a 36-year-old man, Ekwere Obiowo Ernest, for his involvement in pipeline vandalism in the state. This arrest occurred early Friday morning, following a distress call that alerted authorities to suspicious activity in the Ikot Oboron Enyin Village.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Timfon John, officers received the emergency call at around 5:05 AM on Friday, May 9, 2025. The report was made by a Marine Police Officer who reported potential pipeline sabotage in the area. Prompt action from the police led to the quick dispatch of officers to the scene.
Upon arriving, the police were able to apprehend Ernest at the crime location. However, other members of his suspected criminal group managed to flee upon seeing the approaching officers. The authorities have launched a manhunt to track down the remaining suspects.
“Upon receiving the information, operatives were swiftly dispatched to the location. At the scene, one suspect, Ekwere Obiowo Ernest, was successfully apprehended,” DSP John said in a statement issued to the press.
Authorities recovered a variety of tools and materials at the scene, which they believe were being used for the vandalism of the pipeline.
These items include:
- One Fireman FGP 088EG Generator
- One Filing Iron
- Various types of Spanners
- One Filing Machine
- One Siemens Germany Tool Box
- 24 Large Bolts and Nuts
- One Package of Welding Electrodes
- Two Pairs of Trousers (Joggers)
- Two Polo Vests
- Four Long Spanners
- One Constructed Iron Bar
The suspect, Ernest, is currently in police custody, where he is being interrogated. Authorities have assured the public that an ongoing investigation is in progress and that efforts to catch the remaining criminals are continuing.
