By Abdullahi Inuwa
UYO — A major police crackdown on a suspected criminal hideout in Akwa Ibom has led to the arrest of four suspects and the recovery of a locally fabricated pistol, suspected hard drugs, charms and other items believed to be linked to criminal activities.
The operation, carried out by operatives of the Akwa Ibom State Police Command, is part of an intensified campaign to dismantle criminal gangs and reclaim notorious black spots across the state.
Acting on credible intelligence, the police stormed a compound at Mbiabong Ikot Essien, off Oron Road in Uyo Local Government Area, on July 26. The property is reportedly owned by a man identified simply as Imo.
Police said several suspects fled as officers closed in on the location, but four were apprehended during the raid.
Those arrested are Idonranyen Bassey, 18; Emmanuel Rafael, 15; Messiah Vincent, 21; and Goodnews Ubong Bassey, 16.
A thorough search of the premises yielded a locally fabricated pistol, quantities of substances suspected to be Cannabis Sativa, assorted charms, plumbing materials believed to have been stolen and several packaged clothing items suspected to be proceeds of theft.
The operation was conducted on the directive of the Commissioner of Police, Akwa Ibom State Command, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, who has intensified intelligence-driven operations aimed at dismantling criminal hideouts and denying armed gangs, cultists, burglars and drug traffickers a safe haven in the state.
Police described the raid as another significant breakthrough in the Command’s sustained offensive against crime, reaffirming its commitment to protecting lives and property.
The Command also appealed to residents to remain vigilant and continue providing timely and credible information that would assist security agencies in tracking down fleeing suspects and preventing crime.
Investigations are ongoing, while efforts have been intensified to arrest other members of the suspected criminal network who escaped during the operation.
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