November 10, (THEWILL) — Operatives of the Akwa Ibom State Police Command have arrested three suspected members of an armed robbery syndicate said to be responsible for a series of violent attacks in parts of the state. The police also recovered several weapons and stolen property during the operation.
The suspects were apprehended during an intelligence-led raid carried out on Friday, November 7, 2025, around 8 p.m., at a residence belonging to a native doctor in Ikot Ineme Village.
The arrest was disclosed in a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John.
Those arrested have been identified as 40-year-old Akan Udo of Ikot Edem Udo Village and 20-year-old Namso Monday of Ikot Umo Essien Odoro Ikot Village.
They were reportedly receiving treatment for undisclosed ailments at the time of their arrest. The native doctor, said to have been offering cover for the gang, escaped and is currently being trailed by operatives.
A third suspect, 40-year-old Mbata Udo of Ikot Ukpong Offiong Village, was later picked up during a follow-up investigation.
Items recovered during the operation include a locally made pistol, a locally made revolver, 16 machetes, an axe, six mobile phones, two large generators, a pair of pliers and other incriminating exhibits.
The police say the items have been linked to several robbery incidents in the area.
The Commissioner of Police, Baba Mohammed Azare, commended the operatives for what he described as a swift and coordinated response.
He reiterated the Command’s resolve to sustain offensive operations against criminal networks, assuring residents of improved patrols and surveillance as the festive season approaches.
He urged members of the public to remain vigilant and continue providing useful information to assist ongoing security operations.
The suspects are currently in custody and will be charged in court upon conclusion of investigations
