Police arrest four suspects over Seplat facility vandalism in Akwa Ibom after youths allegedly damaged company installations in Ibeno LGA

The Nigeria Police Force in Akwa Ibom State has arrested four suspects linked to the vandalism of facilities belonging to Seplat Energy in Ibeno Local Government Area.

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The development was disclosed on Sunday by the Police Public Relations Officer of the command, Timfon John, who said the arrests followed a distress call from the company’s security control room.

According to the police spokesperson, the incident occurred on March 11 at about 12:00 p.m. when the company reported that a group of youths allegedly vandalised and destroyed its signpost while attempting to gain access to the facility.

John said the suspects, reportedly led by their youth leader, attempted to forcefully enter the premises with the intention of damaging other critical installations.

“Acting swiftly on the directive of the Commissioner of Police, Baba Azare, operatives of the command immediately mobilised to the scene. Upon arrival, the operatives discovered that the company’s signpost had already been forcefully pulled down and destroyed,” she said.

The police spokesperson added that the group, estimated to be about 25 individuals, allegedly resisted arrest and attempted to obstruct police operations during the intervention.

However, John noted that officers carried out a carefully coordinated tactical response, leading to the arrest of four suspects at the scene.

Police authorities said surveillance teams have launched a manhunt for the alleged ring leader and other members of the group who fled during the operation.

The command condemned the act of vandalism and criminal intimidation directed at corporate facilities operating in the state, warning that no individual or group has the right to resort to violence or destruction of property.

John urged residents, particularly youth groups, to channel grievances through lawful and peaceful means rather than taking matters into their own hands.

“The command therefore warns members of the public to desist from acts of vandalism, violence, or sabotage. Anyone found engaging in such activities will be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law,” she said.

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She added that the command remains committed to protecting lives, safeguarding investments, and ensuring a secure environment for lawful businesses to operate across Akwa Ibom State.