BY SOLOMON OKPO
Operatives of the Akwa Ibom State Police Command have thwarted a suspected bomb plot at the Ikot Ekpene Custodial Centre, averting what authorities described as a potentially catastrophic security breach.
The development was disclosed in a press statement issued on Monday in Uyo by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John.
According to the statement, officers recovered high-grade explosive devices in the vicinity of the correctional facility, triggering an immediate emergency response.
Acting on intelligence provided by correctional authorities, the Commissioner of Police, Baba Mohammed Azare, swiftly deployed a specialist bomb disposal unit alongside tactical teams to secure the area and neutralize the threat.
A coordinated search operation led to the discovery of two 90-millimetre high explosive rounds, a burning fuse, and several tools believed to be associated with the devices.
Police authorities confirmed that the explosives were successfully defused at the scene without incident, preventing what could have resulted in significant casualties and infrastructural damage.
In the aftermath of the discovery, security has been reinforced around the custodial centre, with heightened patrols and surveillance measures put in place to forestall any further threats.
Meanwhile, an investigation has been launched to unravel the circumstances surrounding the presence of the explosives and to identify those responsible.
The Command assured residents that the situation remains under control and urged members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious movements or activities.
Despite the swift response by security agencies, the incident is expected to reignite concerns over the vulnerability of correctional facilities and the broader question of internal security across the country.
