Operatives of the Akwa Ibom State Police Command, working with local marine hunters, have arrested a suspected militant and sea pirate, identified as Samuel Geofrey, in Ibaka, Mbo Local Government Area of the state.
The 27-year-old suspect, said to be from Atakpere Community in Ekeremo LGA of Bayelsa State, was arrested on November 3, 2025, around 11:45 a.m., following an intelligence-led operation.
During the operation, police also launched a manhunt for a fleeing traditional ruler who is allegedly one of Geofrey’s collaborators and believed to be in possession of some operational tools used by the group.
Briefing journalists in Uyo, the State Commissioner of Police, Baba Azare, said that when operatives stormed the monarch’s residence, he escaped, but a search of the premises led to the recovery of several items linked to sea piracy.
Recovered items include one 40HP, two 15HP, and one 8HP marine engines; four power heads; four gearboxes; four propellers; four engine covers; one Snow Sea deep freezer; and three generators.
According to CP Azare, the suspect confessed to being part of a militant group involved in sea piracy and kidnapping operations. He also claimed that his rifle was being kept by one Kingdom Bane, the Village Head of Ine Eyoabasi Fishing Village, who is currently on the run.
A second search at the location revealed more items believed to have been stolen from travelers at sea, such as new toilet seats, sinks, a sewing machine, and a bag containing personal effects and identity cards belonging to one Chibuike Vincent Awah from Onitsha, Anambra State.
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Azare said the suspect would be charged to court soon and assured that efforts were ongoing to track down the fleeing traditional ruler and other members of the criminal network.
In a related operation, police officers also raided an illegal gun manufacturing workshop in Ekriti Itam Village, Itu Local Government Area, on October 24, 2025, arresting two suspects — Aniekan Aniedi (39) and Ubong Udofia (35).
Recovered from the site were three locally fabricated guns, several pieces of metal pipes, copper wires, welding tools, and gun components.
The Commissioner reiterated the command’s commitment to maintaining security across Akwa Ibom, urging residents to report suspicious activities to the police promptly.
