A’Ibom police smash militant, robbery gangs in major security sweep

*Azare vows no hiding place for criminals as command dismantles gun factory, arrests cult leaders, and recovers stolen property across the state.

The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has recorded a string of victories in its intensified campaign against crime — from the creeks of Mbo to the heart of Uyo — leading to the arrest of militants, cultists, robbers, burglars, as well as the recovery of arms, ammunition, and stolen goods.

Commissioner of Police, Akwa Ibom State, Baba Mohammed Azare, who briefed journalists on Tuesday, stated that the breakthroughs stemmed from robust intelligence, community collaboration, and synergy with other security agencies.

Militant network dismantled in Ibaka

On November 3, police operatives, working with Marine Hunters, arrested 27-year-old Samuel Geofrey, a suspected militant from Bayelsa State linked to sea piracy and kidnapping.

His confession led to a raid at Ine Eyoabasi Fishing Village, where the Village Head, Kingdom Bane, fled as officers recovered marine engines, generators, household items, and personal belongings of kidnapped victims.

Azare confirmed that Geofrey remains in custody while the hunt for his fleeing accomplice continues.

Police uncover illegal gun factory in Itu

Acting on intelligence, operatives raided an illegal arms workshop at Ekiti Itam, Itu LGA, arresting Aniekan Aniedi (39) and Ubong Udofia (35).

Recovered items included fabricated guns, welding tools, and metal pipes used for weapon production. The police chief said investigations are ongoing to trace their supply chain to cult groups and robbery gangs.

Stolen property, tricycles, phones recovered

In another operation, Umar Bello from Sokoto was arrested with 31 suspected stolen phones destined for Kano.

This followed earlier arrests of a tricycle theft ring, leading to the recovery of three tricycles and 72 phones.

Two other suspects, Maxwell Asuquo and Etin Akpan, were nabbed with stolen motor parts hidden in a sack.

Fake masquerade, cult leaders nabbed

The Command also cracked down on illegal masquerade processions in Abak.

One suspect, Solomon Edem, who disguised himself as a masquerade to rob victims, was arrested with charms, masks, and a machete.

Cult leaders Uwem Umanah and David Michael, identified as members of the “Ekpo” group, were also charged with highway blockage and extortion.

Armed robbery, cult gangs neutralized

A four-man motorcycle snatching gang — Sunday Samson, Imoh Peter, Saviour Jimmy, and Ubong Umana — was busted, with nine stolen bikes recovered.

Another suspect, Eyibio Subsidy, was arrested for robbing a man of a boat engine, while three ex-convicts and several cultists were caught with locally made pistols and live cartridges.

Ammunition recovery, burglary arrests

Police recovered 52 rounds of 9mm live ammunition and three cartridges from a residence in Abak after a tip-off from a resident.

Three suspected burglars — Isreal Udo, Nsikak Okon, and Okechukwu Livinus — were also arrested in Uyo with tools used for breaking into shops.

Azare: “We’ll keep the pressure on”

CP Azare commended officers of the command for their professionalism and urged residents to continue sharing useful information.

He also called on victims of theft to visit the command with proof of ownership for property identification and recovery.

“These arrests and recoveries send a clear message; there is no hiding place for criminals in Akwa Ibom State,” Azare said.

“Together, we’ll make our state safer and more secure.”