By Patrick Titus, Uyo
The sustained onslaught against violent crime by Nigeria Police Force in Akwa Ibom State has led to the dismantling of a notorious armed robbery syndicate operating in Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area and environs of the state.
Acting on credible intelligence, operatives of the Command in the early hours of Saturday, 8th February 2026, carried out a swift operation that led to the raid of the gang’s hideout at Ikot Otu Village, Ikot Ekpene LGA.
During the operation, one Elijah Akpan 48, (male), was arrested. A search of the suspect resulted in the recovery of four (4) expended cartridges and two (2) Special Protection Unit (SPU) police badges, indicating criminal impersonation and an attempt to disguise as law enforcement personnel to perpetrate violent crimes.
Further investigation, according to the Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John led to the arrest of another gang member, Nsikak Udo 32, (male) of the same address, identified as the custodian of the firearm used by the syndicate.
Items recovered include: One single-barrel gun, Eight expended cartridges, Three small containers containing gun powder and other materials used for the illegal reloading of cartridges
The Command has viewed the illegal possession of police badges and locally reloaded ammunition as a serious threat to public safety, highlighting the syndicate’s intent to deceive, intimidate and unleash violence within the community.
While the suspects have been detained in custody, intensive investigations are ongoing to dismantle the entire criminal network, trace the source of the firearm and ammunition, and apprehend other fleeing members of the gang.
The state’s Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, has reassured residents that the state would not be a safe haven for criminals, warning criminal elements that aggressive, intelligence-driven operations and targeted raids will continue across the State.
He urged members of the public to remain vigilant and continue to support the Police with timely and credible information, as security remains a shared responsibility.
