A high-ranking police officer from the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) Unit of the Akwa Ibom State Police Command, CSP Ebong Thompson, turned down a N800,000 bribe offered to facilitate the release of a suspected armed robber and conceal the crime.
The command’s spokesperson, Timfon John, disclosed in a statement that the incident took place on Wednesday, July 30, 2025.
According to her, the primary suspect, 53-year-old David Samuel Isaac, was apprehended after a Samsung smartphone, allegedly stolen at gunpoint, was linked to him.
Investigations showed that Isaac is a habitual offender, having been previously arrested and charged to court for a similar crime last year. He reportedly resumed criminal activities soon after his release.
The second suspect, Emmanuel Mendie Peter, was detained at the SWAT office while attempting to offer the N800,000 bribe to secure Isaac’s release.
“A police officer in charge of the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) Unit, CSP Ebong Thompson, rejected N800,000 bribe offered to him on Wednesday, July 30, 2025,” the statement read.
“The money was intended to secure the release of an armed robbery suspect and also cover up the crime. The suspect, 53-year-old David Samuel Isaac, was arrested after a Samsung phone that was gotten at gun point was traced to him.
“Isaac has a history of similar offences as he was arrested and charged to court for similar crimes sometime last year but returned to criminal activities after his release.
“The other suspect, Emmanuel Mendie Peter was arrested after he brought the bribe to the SWAT office to secure the release of the main suspect. He was taken into custody after the offer was rejected.
“All officers concerned with this discreet investigation received a commendation letter from the Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare.
“The CP, while addressing officers at the end of the month briefing, charged them to emulate the Distinguished officers.
“Members of the public are therefore warned to desist from compromising police investigation.”
A Gentle Reminder: Every obstacle is a stepping stone, every morning; a chance to go again, and those little steps take you closer to your dream.
Nnamdi Okoli
