Police Rescue Abducted 3-Year-Old Girl, Arrest Suspect in Akwa Ibom Operation
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has successfully rescued a three-year-old girl who was abducted in Abak Local Government Area, while also apprehending a suspect identified as Saturday Ofonmbuk in a coordinated security operation.
Timely Response to Distress Call
According to police spokesperson DSP Timfon John, the command received a distress call on Wednesday, January 22, 2026, at approximately 2:40 p.m. from a concerned citizen named Uwem, aged 32 years. The caller reported that an unknown individual had forcefully abducted a female pupil and dragged her into a nearby bush in the community.
Acting with immediate urgency, police operatives mobilized to the scene and launched a comprehensive search operation in collaboration with vigilant youths from the local community. The coordinated effort involved combing through surrounding bush areas and adjoining locations to locate the missing child and apprehend the perpetrator.
Successful Rescue and Arrest
The intensive search operation yielded positive results with the successful rescue of the three-year-old girl and the arrest of suspect Saturday Ofonmbuk, a 29-year-old male from Afaha Ikot Inyang Village in Ukanafun Local Government Area. Police authorities confirmed that the toddler was found safe and completely unharmed during the operation.
The rescued child was immediately reunited with her family, bringing visible relief to community members who had been deeply concerned about her safety. The swift police response and effective community collaboration proved instrumental in ensuring the child's safe recovery within hours of her abduction.
Ongoing Investigation and Police Warning
Police authorities have initiated preliminary investigations to determine the suspect's motive and establish whether he has connections to similar criminal activities within or outside Akwa Ibom State. The command is particularly interested in identifying possible accomplices and understanding the full scope of the abduction attempt.
In an official statement, DSP Timfon John issued a stern warning to criminal elements involved in child abduction, emphasizing that Akwa Ibom State maintains zero tolerance for crimes against children. The police command reiterated its commitment to arresting and prosecuting anyone involved in such offenses to the fullest extent of the law.
Community Collaboration Praised
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command specifically commended the courage, vigilance, and cooperation demonstrated by community members during the operation. Their swift action in reporting the incident and active participation in the search efforts were highlighted as crucial factors in the successful outcome.
Police authorities have encouraged other potential victims or individuals with relevant information to come forward without fear of intimidation. Such persons can report to the nearest police station or the State Criminal Investigation Department in Uyo to assist with ongoing investigations.
The command has reinforced the message that security remains a collective responsibility, urging members of the public to maintain vigilance and promptly report any suspicious movements or activities in their communities. This incident demonstrates how effective police-community partnerships can produce positive security outcomes even in challenging circumstances.
