Police dismantle armed robbery syndicate in Akwa Ibom, recover firearms

Akwa Ibom State Police command announced that its officers have dismantled a well‑known armed robbery syndicate that had been terrorising the Midim community in Abak Local Government Area.

DSP Timfon John, the command’s spokesperson, made the disclosure in a statement issued in Uyo on Thursday.

According to John, police acted on credible intelligence early on Thursday morning, storming the gang’s hideout and arresting one suspect while two other members fled into the surrounding bush.

The command is continuing efforts to locate the escaping suspects.

Items seized from the arrested individual included a locally manufactured pistol, a small axe, a knife, charms believed to be used for criminal fortification, and six wraps of a substance suspected to be Indian hemp.

Additional items recovered were two button phones, three bottles of ice, three rings, one Airtel SIM card, and a multi‑coloured handbag.

The statement read: “While on routine patrol at about 0300 hrs, the command received reliable information regarding a notorious syndicate specializing in robbing unsuspecting motorcycle operators at gunpoint within Midim clan and its environs. Upon receipt of the intelligence, the operatives swiftly mobilised and stormed the criminal hideout in a coordinated operation. On sighting the police team, the suspects attempted to flee. However, one suspect identified as Uduak Vincent ‘M’, 28 years, a native of Ikot Ifang Village in Midim clan, Abak LGA, was successfully chased down and arrested.”

Commissioner of Police CP Baba Mohammed Azare, while reaffirming the command’s determination to rid the state of criminal elements, warned all violent offenders to either repent or be prepared to face decisive police action.