Police bust suspected cultists, recover firearm in Abak
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has recorded another major operational success in its sustained crackdown on criminal activities in the state.
Acting on the directive of the Commissioner of Police, Baba Mohammed Azare, to intensify raids on identified criminal hideouts and dismantle unlawful networks, operatives of the command carried out a successful intelligence-led operation in Abak Local Government Area.
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Etim Ekpimah
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has recorded another major operational success in its sustained crackdown on criminal activities in the state.
Acting on the directive of the Commissioner of Police, Baba Mohammed Azare, to intensify raids on identified criminal hideouts and dismantle unlawful networks, operatives of the command carried out a successful intelligence-led operation in Abak Local Government Area.
The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, said the operation was conducted on 3 May 2026 at about 9:19 pm, when operatives of the Emergency Response Squad stormed a notorious black spot in Oku Abak Village, Abak Local Government Area, where suspected cult members were allegedly holding a gathering.
During the raid, 25 suspects were arrested, comprising both male and female suspects believed to be linked to cult-related activities.
The suspects are Ubong Victor (M), Gabriel Utitofon (M), Liberty Sunday (M), Onyekachi Celestine (M), Sifon Ekong (M), Aniekeme Friday (M), Emmanuel Sunday (M), Emmanuel Johnson (M), Usiene Michael (M), Michael Effiong (M), Mbetobong Johnson (M), Christian Daniel (M), Baribor Zorka (M), Solomon John (M), Moses Eno (M), Ella Sunday (F), Esther Samuel (F), Gift Okon (F), Esther Effiong (F), Delight Eze (F), Agatha Godwin (F), Faith Simon (F), Favour Naru (F), Precious Effiong (F) and Hope Edet (F).
A thorough search of the location led to the recovery of one locally made pistol, two live cartridges and a red beret suspected to be connected to cult operations.
The police also impounded three motorcycles and one minibus allegedly used for criminal activities.
According to the command, the suspects are currently in custody and are cooperating with ongoing investigations, while efforts are being intensified to track down other fleeing members of the group.
Azare reaffirmed the command’s commitment to eliminating cultism and other forms of criminality in Akwa Ibom State.
He warned criminal elements to abandon unlawful activities or face decisive legal action.
The command also urged residents to continue supporting security agencies by providing timely and credible information, as well as reporting suspicious movements and activities within their communities.
