TUESDAY February 18, 2025 | TheNewsDESK

The Akwa Ibom Police Command on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, announced the arrest of three suspected cultists, and smashed an armed robbery syndicate terrorizing some parts of the State.

A statement from the Command’s spokesperson, Timfon John, DSP, said that the suspects,were arrested following an intelligence-driven operation in Akpautong Community on Monday February 17, 2025.

During the operation, several dangerous weapons and stolen items were recovered from the suspects.

“On February 17, 2025 at about 07:20 hours, a retired Staff Sergeant of the Nigerian Army (names withheld) reported that he was awakened by the sound of sporadic gunfire at about 01:20 hours.

“Stepping out, he saw one Kingsley Samuel “m” alias Bobby, leading a group of armed men. His son Daniel Monday, later identified the suspects as Saviour Ime Philip “M” alias Ibia, Benjamin Joseph Asuquo,”m” alias Big Guy ,Simon Monday Ekong ‘m’ ,and others ,who can be identified upon sight.

“The gang broke into his son’s room ,held him at gunpoint. and stole N100,000.

“Similarly, on February 16, 2025, at about 19:45hours, one Daniel Friday Ibiak “m”, of Akpambiet Village, Edo Community, reported that while attending a ceremony in Akpautong village, he was attacked and dragged to a secluded area by Kingsley Samuel ,alias Bobby ,and his gang.

“On a false claim that he owed their friend money, the armed suspects. forced him to withdraw N206,000 via a POS at gunpoint and further extorted N10,000 in cash.

“Acting on credible intelligence, an eye-led surveillance team swiftly tracked and intercepted the fleeing criminals as they attempted to escape in a tricycle and motorcycles.

“Three suspects were arrested ,while others managed to escape. Those apprehended are Saviour Ime Philip ,”m” 25 of Akpautong Village , Benjamin Joshua “m”29 of Akpautong Village and Simon Monday “m” of Odoronkit village”, the police statement reads in part.

Items recovered include two cut-size shotguns, eight machetes, one tricycle ,one motorcycle, power generating set, and assorted charms, according to the police.

According to John, the suspects are believed to be part of a notorious gang of cultists and armed robbers, that have been terrorizing some local councils in Akwa Ibom State.

The Police spokesman assured that efforts are ongoing to hunt down fleeing members of the syndicate.