Police Arrest 7 Alleged Armed Robbers, Restore Weapons in Akwa Ibom

Police operations in Akwa Ibom’s state have arrested seven armed robbers who terrorized residents in the regional government of Ikot Ekpene and its surroundings.

Spokesman for the State Police Command, Timfon John, revealed this in a statement on Saturday at UYO.

He said an operator team raided the syndicate hiding place located in Ikot Osong in Obot Akara Lga at 02:30 in the morning on August 8 and arrested the suspects.

“The location also functions as a temple, where they reportedly strengthen themselves before the operation,” he said.

According to him, the operation began after the murder of one of the gang leaders during the robbery attempt was thwarted and the next arrest of the entire gang leader in the state of IMO.

“The police in a great strong action against criminal activities, succeeded in dismantling the famous armed robbery syndicate which allegedly terrorized the population of Ikot Ekpene and its surroundings.

“The operation, which caused the arrest of seven suspects, was a direct result of continuing efforts to curb violent crimes in the region.

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“Recognition of gang leaders provides important information that takes the police to their operational bases.

“Items that are restored in the operation include a cut-to-size double rifle made locally, two expanded cartridges, one live cartridge, and one ammunition of 7.62 mm AK-47 live.

Other items are five motorbikes, one bicycle, three face masks, two electric banks, several cellphones, police crest hats, army camouflage hats, and alleged charm.

“Investigations are ongoing to restore more items stolen and arrest other syndicate members who are still wide,” John said.