Operatives of the Akwa Ibom State Police Command have re-arrested a suspected receiver and distributor of stolen mobile phones, identified as Musa Idris, recovering 34 assorted Android phones and two button phones believed to be linked to robbery operations within and outside the state.
Key highlights:
- Police re-arrested suspected phone dealer Musa Idris in Akwa Ibom State.
- 36 stolen phones were recovered during the operation.
- Police linked the suspect to a wider robbery network.
- Authorities charged a suspect over false security alerts.
- Police began enforcement against improper vehicle number plates.
The Commissioner of Police, Baba Azare, disclosed this on Wednesday while briefing journalists at the Command Headquarters in Ikot Akpan-Abia, Uyo.
He highlighted the arrest as part of the Command’s recent achievements, which also include the enforcement of vehicle registration regulations and a crackdown on the spread of false security information.
According to the Commissioner, Idris was apprehended along the Calabar–Itu Road following credible intelligence gathered in connection with a recent armed robbery incident in the area.
Investigations revealed that the suspect had previously been arrested in October 2025 for offences related to armed robbery and possession of more than 200 assorted Android phones suspected to have been stolen.
“Operatives of the Command, acting on credible intelligence and in connection with a recent armed robbery incident along the Calabar–Itu Road axis, arrested one Musa Idris, a suspected receiver and distributor of stolen mobile phones linked to an armed robbery syndicate,” Azare stated.
He added that the recovered phones are believed to be proceeds of armed robbery operations carried out by criminal elements operating both within and beyond Akwa Ibom State.
The Commissioner further disclosed that the suspect had provided useful information pointing to a wider criminal network involved in the movement and resale of stolen mobile phones across international borders.
He assured residents that efforts were ongoing to track down and arrest other members of the syndicate who remain at large.
On the issue of false security alerts, Azare announced the conclusion of investigations into a case involving Akaninyene Udo, popularly known online as “AK Philo.”
The suspect allegedly circulated a threatening message captioned, “Eket get ready for us,” accompanied by the image of an armed bandit.
Following investigations, the Commissioner said Udo was charged before a competent court and remanded in a correctional facility.
Read also:
- Aisha Yesufu expresses worry over high fatality rate in the military
- Airforce proposes takeover of Rivers Mother, Child Hospital
- Police arrest suspect over inciting social media content in Kano
He warned that the creation and dissemination of false security alerts capable of causing panic among the public remain criminal offences and that offenders would be prosecuted in accordance with the law.
The Police Command also announced the commencement of a statewide enforcement exercise targeting vehicles operating with covered, altered, obscured, defaced, or missing registration number plates.
Motorists were urged to ensure their vehicles are properly registered and that registration plates remain visible in compliance with existing regulations.
During the briefing, Azare expressed appreciation to the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, for the distribution of First Aid boxes to police commands nationwide, describing the initiative as a demonstration of the IGP’s commitment to the welfare, health, and operational readiness of police personnel.
The Commissioner also presented certificates of commendation to several officers in recognition of their professionalism and dedication to duty.
He emphasized that rewarding integrity and outstanding service remains a key component of modern policing and serves as motivation for officers who continue to perform their responsibilities with distinction.
