Authorities in Akwa Ibom State have apprehended Koabasi Marsodi, a graduate from the University of Uyo, for operating an illegal arms fabrication plant.
DSP Timfon John, the police spokesperson, announced this development in a statement released on Monday, March 16, 2026, confirming that a raid was conducted on the facility after receiving credible intelligence about the production and distribution of chin-chin snacks laced with Indian hemp from the location.
Further investigations indicated that the site was not solely dedicated to producing narcotic-infused snacks, but also served as a covert workshop for crafting arms and ammunition.
The statement emphasized: "The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has achieved a notable success in its ongoing Operation Zero Black Spots, which aims to dismantle criminal hideouts, illegal arms manufacturing facilities, and drug networks throughout the region."
On March 15, 2026, around 9 PM, police operatives executed the raid on a suspect facility situated on Idem Street, just off Itu Road in Uyo, following information that illicit chin-chin snacks containing Indian hemp were being produced at that site.
Upon their arrival at the premises, police officials uncovered evidence that pointed to the dual purpose of the facility, involving both the production of narcotics-laced items and the covert fabrication of arms.
During the extensive search, authorities confiscated several incriminating items, including eight refilled cartridges, six empty cartridges, a bag of gunpowder, tools for refilling, striking pins, a rifle butt, various machines for weapon fabrication, and assorted cutlery. They also seized items suspected to be Indian hemp, packets of chin-chin believed to contain drugs, military gear, a laptop, and even three live turtles allegedly intended for use in charms.
Two individuals were taken into custody, specifically Koabasi Marsodi and another suspect, Marsodi John, both from Uya Oron within the Oron Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.
Initial investigations revealed that Koabasi Marsodi, who has a degree in Animal Science from the University of Uyo, is the primary operator of the illegal enterprise. He has reportedly admitted to producing narcotic-infused chin-chin and conducting unlawful modifications to firearms, often shortening long guns for easier concealment.
The suspects remain in police custody as investigations continue to identify additional members of the related criminal network.
CP Baba Mohammed Azare, the Commissioner of Police for Akwa Ibom, has reiterated the Command's commitment to tracking down, dismantling, and prosecuting those involved in illegal arms production, drug trafficking, and other criminal actions that jeopardize public safety.
He has cautioned individuals or groups engaged in illegal activities within the State to cease immediately, warning them to anticipate stringent legal repercussions, as the Command will persist in enhancing its intelligence- driven operations across identified high-risk areas.
The Commissioner further urged the public to assist the police by providing timely and reliable information, assuring that all tips will be handled with utmost confidentiality.
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