By:Abdullahi Inuwa
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has recorded major operational breakthroughs in its renewed onslaught against criminals across the state, leading to the arrest of notorious militants, armed robbers, cultists, and illegal arms manufacturers.
Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, fsi, disclosed this on Tuesday during a press briefing at the Command Headquarters, Uyo, where he outlined the Command’s recent achievements in intelligence-led policing, marine operations, and community collaboration.
Azare, who reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to rid Akwa Ibom of criminal elements, said the operations—spanning the creeks of Mbo to the capital city of Uyo—underscore the Police’s determination to make the state safer for all residents.
Militant Syndicate Dismantled in Ibaka
In one of the major breakthroughs, operatives of the Command, in collaboration with Marine Hunters, arrested 27-year-old militant, Samuel Geofrey, a native of Bayelsa State, for his involvement in sea piracy and kidnapping.
The operation led to the recovery of multiple stolen marine engines, generators, freezers, and other items linked to robbery attacks on sea travelers. The Command is also on the trail of Kingdom Bane, the fleeing Village Head of Ine Eyoabasi Fishing Village, alleged to be the group’s armourer.
Illegal Gun Factory Busted in Itu
Acting on credible intelligence, police operatives uncovered a local gun manufacturing facility at Ekiti Itam Village, Itu LGA, operated by Aniekan Aniedi and Ubong Udofia.
Recovered items included fabricated guns, welding tools, and metal components used in producing firearms.
Arrests for Handling Stolen Property
The Command also arrested Umar Bello, who attempted to transport 31 stolen mobile phones to Kano. Additional arrests led to the recovery of stolen tricycles and motor vehicle parts from various suspects, including Maxwell Asuquo and Etin Akpan.
Masquerade Robbers and Cult Leaders Nabbed
Following a clampdown on unlawful masquerade processions, police apprehended Solomon Edem, who disguised as a masquerade to rob unsuspecting victims in Abak LGA. Also arrested were Uwem Umanah, leader of the “Ekpo” cult, and his accomplice David Michael, for illegal assembly and extortion.
Armed Robbery Rings Crushed
A coordinated sting operation on November 3 neutralized a notorious motorcycle-snatching gang operating across Akwa Ibom and Rivers States. Arrested suspects—Sunday Samson, Imoh Peter, Saviour Jimmy, and Ubong Umana—were found with nine stolen motorcycles.
Recovery of Ammunition
Police recovered 52 live rounds of 9mm ammunition and three cartridges following a public tip-off in Abak, while further raids led to the arrest of several ex-convicts and cult members with firearms and stolen motorcycles.
CP Azare Commends Officers, Pledges Sustained Action
CP Azare lauded the courage and professionalism of officers involved in the successful operations and thanked residents for their continuous support. He urged the public to report suspicious activities and visit the Command for possible identification of recovered stolen items.
“These arrests and recoveries send a clear message—there is no safe haven for criminals in Akwa Ibom State,” the Police Commissioner declared.
“We will sustain this momentum until every criminal network is dismantled.”
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to intelligence-driven policing and seamless cooperation with communities and sister agencies to ensure lasting peace and security across the state.
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