Aniefiok Christopher
A notorious robbery syndicate operating in Ikot Ekpene and in neighbouring local government areas was busted by Akwa Ibom Police Command.
The Command, under the proactive and results-driven leadership of the Commissioner of Police, Baba Mohammed Azare, recorded this major operational success in its sustained fight against violent crime.
‘‘Acting on credible intelligence, operatives of the Command on Saturday, 7th February 2026, at about 0830 hours, carried out a swift, intelligence-led operation that led to the raid of the gang’s hideout at Ikot Otu Village, Ikot Ekpene LGA.
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‘‘During the operation, one Elijah Akpan (male), aged 48, was arrested. A search of the suspect resulted in the recovery of four (4) expended cartridges and two (2) Special Protection Unit (SPU) police badges, strongly indicating criminal impersonation and an attempt to disguise as law enforcement personnel to perpetrate violent crimes,’’ the Command’s spokesperson revealed.
A press release signed by DSP Timfon John, Police Public Relations Officer for Commissioner of Police on February 9 in Uyo, said ‘‘Further investigation led to the arrest of another gang member, Nsikak Udo (male), aged 32, of the same address, identified as the custodian of the firearm used by the syndicate.
‘‘Items recovered include One (1) single-barrel gun, Eight expended cartridges, Three small containers containing gun powder and Other materials used for the illegal reloading of cartridges.’’
According to the release, ‘‘The Command views the illegal possession of police badges and locally reloaded ammunition as a serious threat to public safety, highlighting the syndicate’s intent to deceive, intimidate, and unleash violence within the community.
‘‘Both suspects are currently in custody, while intensive investigations are ongoing to dismantle the entire criminal network, trace the source of the firearm and ammunition, and apprehend other fleeing members of the gang.’’
Reacting to the development, the Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, fsi, reassures residents that Akwa Ibom State will not be a safe haven for criminals, warning criminal elements that aggressive, intelligence-driven operations and targeted raids will continue across the state.
Azare urges members of the public to remain vigilant and continue to support the Police with timely and credible information, as security remains a shared responsibility.
