The authorities in Akwa Ibom State have captured the leader of Utit Antai village and 12 others for their involvement in the abduction and decapitation of three marine hunters. The suspects reportedly kidnapped, beheaded, and buried the victims in a hidden grave in a forest, allegedly with the support of the village head.
The State Commissioner of Police, Joseph Eribo, revealed that the arrests were made following intelligence that the marine hunters had been killed and buried in a forest area. The suspects were apprehended, and a search led to the discovery of the victims’ bodies buried in shallow graves with their heads severed.
Eribo disclosed that the suspects were found with 15 live cartridges and listed their names, including the village head of Utit Antai village. Additionally, individuals were paraded for illegal possession of firearms.
Efforts to maintain peace in the state were emphasized by Eribo, who also mentioned the importance of recognizing and rewarding diligent police officers while ensuring that those who violate the law face consequences.