A suspected armed robber identified as Mkpowo has died following a confrontation with residents of Mbiabet Ikpe community in Essien Udim Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command confirmed the incident in a statement issued by its spokesperson, DSP Timfon John, in Uyo on Thursday.
According to the police, the incident happened around 7:30 pm on Wednesday when youths in the community reportedly attempted to arrest the suspect.
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Mkpowo allegedly opened fire on the youths with a locally made pistol but was eventually overpowered during the confrontation.
The residents reportedly inflicted serious injuries on his head before he was 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.
Police said a locally made pistol, one live cartridge and one spent cartridge were recovered from him.
Preliminary investigations identified Mkpowo as a suspected criminal on the command’s wanted list. His alleged criminal activities and hideout had reportedly been under security surveillance.
The Commissioner of Police, Baba Mohammed Azare, commended residents for providing useful information to security agencies.
However, he warned members of the public against confronting armed suspects violently, advising them to apprehend offenders only when it is safe and hand them over to the police for investigation and prosecution.
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