The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has successfully dismantled a notorious kidnap gang responsible for a series of abductions in the Ikot Ekpene and Essien Udim areas, marking a significant blow against crime in the state.
The operation, which led to the death of one suspect and the recovery of arms, ammunition, and substantial cash, was confirmed by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Timfon John, on Monday. According to John, the gang had been the primary force behind the recent kidnappings in the region.
Following credible intelligence, a joint tactical team stormed multiple hideouts at Ikpe Annang, Ikpe Ikot Akpan, and Ikot Inyang in Essien Udim Local Government Area. Upon sighting the officers, the suspects opened fire in a desperate attempt to escape, leading to a fierce gun battle between the police and the criminals.
The five suspects were injured in the exchange and apprehended. They were rushed to a hospital, where one was pronounced dead.
During the operation, security operatives recovered a range of weapons, including an AK-47 rifle, G3 rifle, pump-action shotgun, and a locally made dane gun. Additionally, the team seized ₦3,130,600, as well as other items such as a bag of crayfish, a tambourine, an electric power amplifier, a conga drum, and three GSM button phones.
In his statement, PPRO Timfon John declared that Akwa Ibom is no longer a safe haven for criminals, sending a strong warning to others considering similar illegal activities.
The Commissioner of Police, Baba Azare, praised the tactical team's bravery and urged residents to stay vigilant. He also called for greater collaboration between the public and security forces to combat crime effectively, assuring that efforts to dismantle criminal networks in the state will continue without pause.
