By Solomon OKPO.
IBENO, The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has intensified efforts to track down suspects linked to a violent attack in Inua Eyet Ikot Phase 2, Ibeno Local Government Area, which left at least two people injured and multiple properties destroyed.
According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, the attack occurred in the early hours of Monday, February 10. A distress call was received around 2:45 a.m., prompting police operatives to respond swiftly. However, by the time they arrived, the assailants had already fled the scene.
Preliminary investigations revealed that two buildings were set ablaze, while a man (name withheld) sustained gunshot wounds to his right leg and left shoulder. He was rushed to a private hospital, where he is currently receiving treatment.
Following a fact-finding mission led by the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations, DCP Adamu Mohammed Bello, police intelligence linked the attack to an ongoing cult rivalry. Reports indicate that a suspected cult leader, identified as Iraq, led his gang in an assault against rivals at a local motel. During the clash, four rooms were set on fire, and two motorcycles were destroyed.
In a related development, police operatives rescued another man from a nearby river on Monday morning. He was also found with gunshot wounds and has been taken to the same hospital for treatment.
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has launched a manhunt for Iraq and his gang, vowing to ensure they face justice. Commissioner of Police Baba Mohammed Azare reaffirmed the command’s commitment to eliminating criminal elements from the state, assuring residents that no stone will be left unturned in the pursuit of justice.
The police urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to law enforcement authorities through emergency lines.
