RismadarVoice Reporters
February 8, 2026
Operatives of the Akwa Ibom State Police Command have raided criminal hideouts in Ibaka, Mbo Local Government Area, arresting 23 suspects and recovering large quantities of suspected illicit drugs and other exhibits.
A statement issued on Sunday in Uyo by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, said the operation followed credible intelligence and was carried out between Wednesday, February 5, and Thursday, February 6, 2026.
According to the statement, the coordinated night operation targeted identified criminal black spots within the Ibaka Fishing Port. Several hideouts were searched, leading to the arrest of suspects including Sampson Newstyle, Godgift Benabinte, Michael Asukwo, Prince Ene, Goodnews Asukwo, Golden Edu, and 17 others.
Items recovered during the raid include large commercial quantities of dried leaves suspected to be Indian hemp, chemically enhanced variants of the substance, illicit locally brewed alcoholic drinks, as well as containers and devices allegedly used for inhaling hard drugs.
DSP John said investigations had commenced to determine the extent of the suspects’ involvement in criminal activities and to identify other individuals linked to the drug network operating in the area.
“The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has recorded a major operational success following a coordinated raid of identified criminal black spots within Ibaka Fishing Port,” the statement said.
The command reaffirmed its zero-tolerance stance on drug abuse, trafficking, and other criminal activities, adding that intelligence-led operations would be sustained across the state to dismantle all criminal hideouts.
It also assured residents that the Ibaka axis remains calm, with enhanced patrols and surveillance in place to prevent any resurgence of criminal activity.
