Operatives of the Akwa Ibom State Police command have recovered one locally fabricated pistol and two live cartridges after raiding a suspected cultists’ hideout in the Ukanafun Local Government Area of the state.

This was contained in a statement by the command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, in Uyo on Saturday.

The spokesman said the operatives stormed the hideout at Ikot-Effiong village in Ukanafun LGA after credible intelligence, adding that upon sighting them, the criminals took to their heels and left behind the firearm.

The statement reads in part, “Acting on credible intelligence, operatives of the Command raided a suspected cultist hideout at Ikot Efiong Village in Ukanafun Local Government Area on the evening of March 6, 2025.

“On sighting the operatives, the hoodlums fled, abandoning one locally made pistol and two live cartridges, which were recovered at the scene.

“While no arrests were made during the operation, investigation is ongoing to track down the fleeing suspects and bring them to justice.”

DSP John, who emphasised that the commissioner of police has assured residents of the command’s commitment to fighting crime to a standstill in the state, urged the public to continue to provide useful information to the police at all times.

“The Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, assures residents that the Command remains resolute in its fight against crime and will not relent in its efforts to rid the state of criminal elements.

“He urges the public to continue providing useful information to the police, as community support remains vital in sustaining the peace and security currently enjoyed in Akwa Ibom,” the statement said.