The Akwa Ibom State Police Command , has arrested a principal suspect involved in illegal mining at Okorutip ,Atai and Ndito Ekaiba coastal villages in Ibeno Local Government Area.
The suspect, identified as James John, a.k.a. “Kpoi,” male, 34- year- old, of Itak Ifaha Village, and others at large ,allegedly involved in illegal mining activities within the area.
The other suspects were said to have fled the scene upon sighting the Police operatives and are currently being traced as investigations continue.
Items sighted and recovered at the suspected illegal mining locations include bags containing a mineral substance identified as titanium ore, commonly referred to as “black sand.”
The recovered materials have been secured and will be subjected to appropriate examination and verification as part of the ongoing investigation.
A release by the Police Public Relations Officer ,DSP Timfon John said that the Command in continuation of its enforcement under the caption “Police Declare War on Illegal Mining in Akwa Ibom State,” saw operatives of the Command, stormed suspected illegal mining sites and arrested the suspect on September 28, 2026
“The Command is particularly concerned about the activities of individuals and groups engaging in the unlawful extraction, processing, storage and movement of mineral resources, especially in coastal communities, where such activities have the potential to cause significant environmental damage and undermine lawful regulatory processes.
“The arrest and recovery form part of the Command’s broader operational strategy to identify the individuals financing, coordinating and facilitating illegal mining activities, rather than merely targeting persons found at mining sites, the statement said.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police , Baba Azare has reiterated that there will be no safe haven for illegal mining syndicates in Akwa Ibom as individuals, groups, sponsors, financiers, collaborators and other persons involved in the unlawful exploitation of the State’s mineral resources are advised to immediately desist from such activities or face the full weight of the law.
He assured that the Command will continue to work with relevant regulatory authorities, sister security agencies, traditional institutions and responsible members of the public to identify and disrupt illegal mining operations across the State.
The Police Commissioner encouraged members of the public, particularly residents of mining-prone communities, to provide timely and credible information on suspected illegal mining activities to the Police and other appropriate authorities, assuring that such information will be treated with the necessary confidentiality.
“The Akwa Ibom State Police Command remains resolute in protecting lives and property, safeguarding the State’s natural resources and ensuring that those