RismadarVoice Reporters, April 11, 2026
Akwa Ibom State Police Command has uncovered a suspected criminal hideout operating under the guise of a church, leading to the arrest of seven suspects and the recovery of firearms and other incriminating items.
The operation, carried out in the early hours of April 8, 2026, followed actionable intelligence indicating that criminal elements were using the premises as a base for unlawful activities.
In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, the Command said the intelligence-driven raid was part of ongoing efforts to rid the state of criminal elements in line with directives from the Inspector-General of Police.
The suspects arrested during the operation were identified as Preacher Brain Ebeka; Kenneth Eziekiel; Dickson Ndue so; Abang Rowland; Esther Elijah Okon; Joy Elijah Okon; and another Esther Elijah Okon.
A search of the premises led to the recovery of several items, including two locally made double-barrel guns, five expended cartridges, five machetes, four motorcycles, three large generators, and ten mobile phones.
Other items recovered include a police crest, four jungle boots, a peak cap, a special forces vest, several vehicle plate numbers, tools such as a saw blade and spanner, bottles of suspected spiritual oil, and an enlarged photograph believed to be connected to ongoing investigations.
According to the police, preliminary findings suggest that the location was being used as a cover for criminal operations, raising concerns over the misuse of religious platforms for illegal activities.
The Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, has ordered a full-scale investigation into the case and directed operatives to intensify efforts to apprehend a principal suspect who is currently at large.
The Command warned that it would not tolerate any attempt to conceal criminal activities under any disguise, including religious fronts, and vowed to bring all perpetrators to justice.
Residents were urged to remain vigilant and support security agencies with credible information, as the police reiterated their commitment to ensuring the safety of lives and property across Akwa Ibom State.
