UNIUYO graduate arms factory uncovered as police arrest suspect over illegal gun production and drug-laced snacks in Uyo

Operatives of the Akwa Ibom State Police Command have arrested Koabasi Marsodi, a graduate of the University of Uyo, for allegedly operating an illegal arms fabrication facility alongside a drug-related operation in Uyo.

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The arrest was carried out on Sunday night during a raid on suspected criminal hideouts as part of the command’s ongoing Operation Zero Black Spots, an intelligence-driven crackdown targeting illicit networks across the state.

According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, operatives acted on credible intelligence and stormed a facility located on Idem Street, off Itu Road, where the suspect was apprehended.

Initial intelligence had suggested that narcotic-laced chin-chin snacks were being produced at the premises.

However, further inspection revealed a more alarming discovery, with the location doubling as a clandestine arms and ammunition fabrication workshop.

“Preliminary investigation revealed that the principal suspect, Koabasi Marsodi, a graduate of Animal Science from the University of Uyo, allegedly operates the illegal facility,” the statement said.

Police said the suspect confessed to producing food items laced with Indian hemp and engaging in the illegal fabrication and modification of firearms, including shortening long guns into concealable weapons.

Items recovered from the site include refilled and expended cartridges, gunpowder, striking pins, a rifle butt, and various mechanical tools such as drilling and cutting machines used in weapon production.

Other exhibits include machetes, substances suspected to be Indian hemp, packets of the adulterated snacks, and military-style items including boots, belts and a jacket.

The command described the discovery as a disturbing development, highlighting the dangerous intersection of illicit drug distribution and illegal arms production.

Authorities said investigations are ongoing to track and arrest other members of the suspected criminal network identified during interrogation.

The Commissioner of Police, Baba Mohammed Azare, reaffirmed the command’s commitment to dismantling criminal operations and safeguarding public safety.

He warned that intelligence-led operations would be intensified across identified hotspots, urging residents to avoid criminal activities or face decisive legal consequences.

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The case underscores growing concerns over the proliferation of illegal weapons and drug-related activities, as security agencies step up efforts to disrupt emerging threats in the state.