Following the recent uprise of crime and insecurity in the state, particularly in Uyo, the state capital, the new Commissioner of Police in Akwa Ibom State, Waheed Ayilara has vowed to raid criminal hideouts, fish out all criminal elements and ensure peace in the state.

Ayilara, who only recently resumed duties in the State, made this pledge at his maiden press conference held on Monday, February 12, 2024 at the Police Officers’ Mess in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. 

He expressed concern over the recent unfortunate happenings in the State, declaring that he would make criminals and their collaborators uncomfortable and unable to thrive within the State. 

“I am using this medium to prevail on all criminals and their collaborators in the state to pack your bags and luggage and relocate from the state. It is not going to be business as usual. We shall take the battle to your hideouts and deny you freedom of action anywhere in the state.”

It can be recalled that between January and the first week of February 2024 there have been multiple reports of murder, kidnap attempts and other criminal occurrences in the state. 

In January ,10 suspected kidnappers, who were said to be planning the kidnap of an expatriate involved in the ongoing construction along the Calabar-Itu Highway in the State, were arrested by the police. 

The suspected kidnappers were arrested when operatives of the Ibiono Ibom division stormed their hideouts in the Ibiaku Ikot Oku community forest following a tip-off.

In January as well, two decapitated female bodies were found on Nwaniba road and Udo Udoma in Uyo and till date, no arrests have been made to that effect. 

In February, a police inspector simply identified as Inspector Osang was beheaded in his home at Enen Afaha street in Afaha Ube off Ikot Ekpene road, Uyo. 

These and many other criminal cases have made the city inhabitable for the residents. 

The Police Commissioner acknowledged that this feat cannot be achieved only by the police force and stated that to achieve success in the planned action, the Command will collaborate with other security agencies and other critical stakeholders in the state.

He assured the residents that the command is set to carry out its duties efficiently and urged them to embrace peace and resist any temptation to resort to violence, threat, or misinformation on social media that may threaten the security of the state.

“My primary goal is to foster a safe and secure environment for every resident. Together, we will work tirelessly to uphold the rule of law, promote accountability, and ensure the safety of all indigenes and the residents of the state.  

The challenges we may face will be met with resilience, innovation, and a shared dedication to upholding the ideals of justice and security,” 

In an interview with Kristina Reports, some residents of Uyo metropolis complained bitterly about the sudden surge in crime in the city and how it has affected their day to day lives and businesses. 

Theresa John said “I was robbed at plaza about a week ago. Some boys just gathered around me and showed me guns and knives. In broad daylight! It happened around 2pm, they got my phone, made me unlock it and got all the cash I had on me. 

I have been traumatized since, i can’t go around the plaza at all anymore. Apparently it has happened to a lot of other people because when I shared my story on Facebook a lot of people shared their experiences too. Something needs to be done.”

Mrs. Ima, who sells fruits at Udo Udoma Junction, complained that due to the insecurity, residents retire to their homes very early and so she does not make as much sales anymore. 

“Before, I usually made the most sales between 9 and 10pm. But now by 8pm the road is almost totally dry and I have to pack up as well because about a month ago my colleague was robbed on the opposite street at about 9pm.”

Both individuals pleaded with the government to do something about it as the state which was originally known for its calmness and peace is turning into a hub of crime which is causing residents to live in fear.