…intensify search for fleeing suspects
Operatives of the Akwa Ibom State Police Command, in a major crackdown on criminal activity, successfully dismantled a suspected notorious armed robbery syndicate that has been terrorizing residents of Ikot Ekpene and its environs.
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 a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, Akwa Ibom State Command, DSP Timfon John “The operation was initiated following the neutralization 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 police to their operational base.
At approximately 02:30AM 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 fortify themselves before their operations.
The following seven individuals were arrested at the scene:
* 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)
* Imo Effiong Udofia (male, 22)
Items recovered from the operation include:
• One locally made, cut-to-size double-barrel gun
• Two expanded cartridges and one live cartridge
• One live 7.62 mm AK-47 ammunition
•Five motorcycles
• one bicycle
•Three face masks
* two power banks
* multiple mobile phones
* A police-crested cap
* army camouflage cap
• Suspected Charms and a liquid substance used for native protection
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”.
