The Akwa Ibom State Police Command reports that it prevents an attempted attack on a palace in Essien Udim Local Government Area and arrests a man found with a firearm. Police spokesperson DSP Timfon John says officers acted on credible intelligence and responded after a distress call late on July 1, 2026, around 9:00 p.m. The suspect, identified as Bassey Udo Idiong, is 42 years old. Police say the man allegedly stormed the palace armed with a locally made pistol. Officers disarm him without incident and recover the weapon, and the suspect is currently in custody. The command says a discreet investigation is underway to determine the suspect’s motive, trace where the gun came from, and identify any possible accomplices. After investigations are completed, police say the suspect will be charged to court. Commissioner of Police Baba Mohammed Azare commends the officers for their professionalism and reiterates the command’s commitment to combat illegal firearms and violent crime in the state. He also calls on the public to provide timely, credible information, assuring confidentiality, and warns that there will be no hiding place for anyone trying to disrupt peace and security.