The Cross River State Police Command has arrested a 60-year-old suspected gun runner and recovered illegal firearms in Odukpani Local Government Area, in a major breakthrough against the proliferation of small arms in the state.

The arrest, which followed credible intelligence on the movement of illicit weapons, was carried out in Ubanbat Community by operatives of the Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Unit.

In a statement issued on Monday in Calabar by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), ASP Sunday Eitokpah, the suspect, identified as Okon William, was apprehended during a targeted sting operation on April 19, 2026, at about 5:00 p.m.

According to the police spokesperson, a thorough search conducted on the suspect led to the recovery of two locally fabricated long guns concealed in his possession.

Preliminary investigations, the statement revealed, indicate that the suspect had been using covert means to distribute firearms while evading law enforcement authorities.

“The suspect is currently cooperating with the police and has provided useful information that is aiding ongoing investigations into a wider network involved in the fabrication and distribution of illegal arms,” Eitokpah said.

Reacting to the development, the Commissioner of Police, CP Rashid Bello Afegbua, reiterated the Command’s zero-tolerance stance on violent crime and illegal arms proliferation, assuring residents of sustained efforts to rid the state of criminal elements.

The Command emphasized its unwavering commitment to the protection of lives and property, noting that intensified operations are underway to apprehend other members of the suspected criminal syndicate.

The suspect remains in police custody and is expected to be arraigned in court upon the conclusion of investigations.