The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has successfully dismantled a notorious kidnapping syndicate operating in Ikot Ekpene, Essien Udim, and neighboring communities.
The operation, which led to the death of one suspect and the arrest of four others, also resulted in the recovery of firearms, ammunition, and a significant amount of cash.
Confirming the development in a statement on Monday, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, described the gang as the primary force behind a series of recent abductions in the region.
“Acting on credible intelligence, a joint tactical team stormed multiple criminal hideouts at Ikpe Annang, Ikpe Ikot Akpan, and Ikot Inyang in Essien Udim Local Government Area,” John said.
According to him, the suspects attempted to evade arrest by engaging officers in a gun battle.
“Upon sighting security operatives, the suspects opened fire in a desperate attempt to escape. Our officers swiftly responded, leading to a fierce exchange,” he stated.
All five suspects sustained injuries during the confrontation and were subsequently apprehended. They were rushed to a nearby hospital, where one of them was pronounced dead.
A thorough search of the criminals’ hideouts led to the seizure of several weapons, including an AK-47 rifle, a G3 rifle, a pump-action shotgun, and a locally made dane gun.
Other recovered items included a cash sum of ₦3,130,600, a bag of crayfish, a tambourine, an electric power amplifier, a conga drum, and three GSM button phones.
Reaffirming the Command’s commitment to tackling crime, DSP John warned criminal elements that Akwa Ibom would no longer be a refuge for illegal activities.
“The state is no longer a safe haven for criminals. We are determined to rid Akwa Ibom of such elements and ensure the safety of residents,” he stated.
Reacting to the successful operation, the Commissioner of Police, Baba Azare, commended the tactical team for their courage and professionalism.
He urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies in the ongoing fight against crime.
“Our fight against criminal networks will continue relentlessly. We encourage the public to provide timely information to security agencies to enhance crime prevention efforts,” Azare added.
The Police Command reassured residents that efforts to dismantle criminal syndicates across the state would persist, ensuring peace and security for all.
