RismadarVoice Reporters
September 18, 2026
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested six suspected members and associates of an alleged armed robbery gang accused of operating across Ikono, Ini and Obot Akara Local Government Areas of the state.
The suspects were arrested in the early hours of Wednesday during coordinated operations by the command’s tactical team at identified hideouts across the three LGAs.
Police spokesperson, DSP Timfon John, said the operation followed sustained intelligence gathering aimed at dismantling a network suspected of involvement in armed robberies and motorcycle thefts.
The suspects were identified as Peter Sabbath, 34, of Ikot Inyang Village, Ikot Ekpene LGA; Joseph Udo, 25, of Nung Ukim Ikot Okorie Village, Ikono LGA; Victor Igwe, 23, of Mbiabong Ukan Ikot Etefia Village; Boniface Essiet, 37, of Ikot Akpan Ntim Village, Ikono LGA; Simeon Udo, 47, of Itak Ikot Akpandem Village, Ikono LGA; and Uko Akang of Asanting Village.
The police statement did not specify the LGAs for Mbiabong Ukan Ikot Etefia and Asanting villages.
Police alleged that Igwe was involved in producing fake receipts used to facilitate the sale of suspected stolen motorcycles, while Essiet, described as a native doctor, allegedly provided charms and other materials to members of the gang.
Akang was allegedly found in possession of a red Qlink motorcycle with registration number AUQ 73 VC, which police suspect was stolen.
ITEMS RECOVERED
The command said operatives recovered two single-barrel shotguns, three laptops and a suspected stolen motorcycle, alongside other items considered relevant to the investigation.
Commissioner of Police Baba Mohammed Azare commended the operatives and directed investigators to establish the individual roles allegedly played by the suspects, recover additional suspected stolen property and apprehend other members of the alleged network who may still be at large.
Azare said the command would sustain intelligence-led operations to disrupt criminal networks and deny offenders safe havens across the state.
The six suspects remain under investigation, and the allegations against them have not been determined by a court.
