Naija News • 5h ago
Police Arrest 4 Over Vandalism at Seplat Facility in Akwa Ibom
**Police Arrest 4 over Seplat Vandalism in Akwa Ibom**
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has apprehended four suspects in connection with the alleged vandalism of a Seplat Energy facility in Mkpanak Village, Ibeno Local Government Area of the state.
According to reports, the group attempted to break into the facility and destroy critical installations, but were thwarted by the swift response of police operatives. The suspects, all from Mkpanak Village, resisted arrest and obstructed police operations.
Commissioner of Police, Baba Mohammed Azare, confirmed that the police are on the trail of the alleged ringleader and other fleeing members of the group. He stated that Seplat Energy had reported the incident to the police on March 11, 2026, and that police operatives were immediately mobilised to the scene.
The commissioner condemned the vandalism and intimidation directed at corporate facilities in the state, stressing that no individual or group has the right to resort to violence or destruction of property. He urged youth groups and members of the public to channel grievances through lawful means, rather than taking the law into their own hands.
In a similar vein, the incident highlights the importance of upholding the rule of law in the oil-rich Niger Delta region, where the activities of multinational corporations like Seplat Energy have been a subject of controversy. While the company has made significant contributions to the state's economy, the actions of the suspects demonstrate the need for a more nuanced approach to addressing the concerns of local communities.
The police commissioner warned that anyone found engaging in vandalism, violence or sabotage would be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law. This is a timely reminder of the consequences of such actions, and the importance of maintaining peaceful and lawful means of resolving disputes in our communities.