Operatives of the Nigeria Police Force in Akwa Ibom State have arrested seven suspected criminals following a raid on a location allegedly operating under the guise of a church in Ikono Local Government Area.
The operation, which took place in Ndiya Mfia village, was carried out by the state command based on actionable intelligence, leading to the early morning arrest of the suspects at about 6:00 a.m. on Wednesday.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, the raid forms part of ongoing efforts by the command to clamp down on criminal activities across the state.
“In a decisive, intelligence-led operation, the Akwa Ibom State Police Command recorded a significant breakthrough in its sustained efforts to rid the state of criminal elements,” she said.
She explained that security operatives moved in swiftly after receiving credible information that individuals suspected to be involved in criminal activities were operating from a compound posing as a place of worship.
“Acting on credible intelligence, operatives stormed the location and apprehended seven suspects. Preliminary findings indicate that the premises was being used as a cover for unlawful activities,” John added.
Items recovered from the scene include two locally fabricated double-barrel guns, five spent cartridges, four motorcycles, three large generators, ten mobile phones, and a police crest.
The suspects identified by the police include Brain Ebeka, Kenneth Ezekiel, Dickson Ndueso, Abang Rowland, Esther Elijah Okon, Joy Elijah Okon, and another female suspect.
Reacting to the development, the Commissioner of Police in the state, Baba Azare, ordered a full-scale investigation and directed officers to intensify efforts to track down a principal suspect who is currently on the run.
“The command will not tolerate the use of religious fronts or any disguise to perpetrate crime. Those involved will face the full weight of the law,” Azare stated.
He also urged residents to remain vigilant and support security agencies with timely information, assuring that the police remain committed to protecting lives and property across Akwa Ibom State.
