Residents of Mbiabet Ikpe community in Essien Udim Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State have killed a suspected armed robber after he allegedly opened fire on youths attempting to arrest him.
The suspect, identified only as Mkpowo, reportedly sustained severe head injuries during the confrontation on Wednesday evening and later died at a hospital.
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command confirmed the incident in a statement issued in Uyo on Thursday by its Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John.
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According to the police, the confrontation occurred around 7.30pm when youths in the community attempted to apprehend the suspect, who allegedly responded by firing a locally made pistol.
However, the youths reportedly overpowered him and inflicted serious injuries on his head.
“He was subsequently rushed to a hospital for medical attention, where he was confirmed dead. His remains have since been deposited in a morgue for preservation and further necessary procedures,” the statement said.
Police said preliminary investigations identified Mkpowo as one of the suspected criminals on the command’s wanted list, adding that his alleged criminal activities and hideout had been under sustained security surveillance.
A locally made pistol, one live cartridge and one expended cartridge were recovered from him.
The Commissioner of Police, Baba Mohammed Azare, commended residents for providing credible intelligence that could assist security agencies in tackling crime.
However, he warned against violent confrontations with suspected criminals, particularly those carrying firearms.
Azare urged residents to apprehend suspects only where it was safe to do so and promptly hand them over to the police for investigation and prosecution.
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