The Akwa Ibom State Police Command, in a major crackdown on criminal activities, has successfully dismantled a suspected notorious armed robbery syndicate that has been terrorising residents of Ikot Ekpene and its environs.
In a press release, DSP Timfon John, the Police Public Relations Officer, Akwa Ibom State Police Command, stated that the operation, which led to the arrest of seven suspects, is a direct result of ongoing efforts to curb violent crime in the region.
According to the PPRO, “the operation was initiated following the neutralisation of one of the gang leaders during a foiled robbery attempt and the subsequent apprehension of the overall gang leader, who was found in hiding in Imo State.
“The gang leader’s confession provided critical information that led the police to their operational base.
She said, “At approximately 02:30 AM on August 8, 2025, a team of operatives launched a raid on the syndicate’s hideout located in Ikot Osong village, Obot Akara Local Government Area. This location also served as a shrine where the suspects reportedly fortified themselves before their operations.
At the scene, the following seven individuals were arrested, namely: David Effiong Silas aka “Davido” (male, 29); Etido Udo Lazarus (male, 26); Etimbuk Thursday Udofia (female, 25); Ime Effiong Silas aka “Udo Doctor” (male, 27); Joseph John Nelson (male, 31), Nduese Solomon John (male, 32) and Imo Effiong Udofia (male, 22).
The police also recovered the following items during the operation: One locally made, cut-to-size double-barrel gun; Two expanded cartridges and one live cartridge; One live 7.62 mm AK-47 round; Five motorcycles;
One bicycle; Three face masks; Two power banks; multiple mobile phones; A police-crested cap, an Army camouflage cap, suspected charms and a liquid substance used for native protection.
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DSP Timfon John added that “investigation is currently ongoing to recover more stolen items and apprehend other members of the syndicate still at large.
“The Command reaffirms its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all citizens.”
