Police Arrest 7 Suspected Armed Robbers, Recover Arms In Akwa Ibom

Operatives of the Akwa Ibom State Police Command, in a major crackdown on criminal activities, have smashed a notorious armed robbery gang accused of terrorising residents of Ikot Ekpene local government area and its environs.

Police Public Relations Officer (DSP), Akwa Ibom Command, Timfon John, who disclosed this to Journalists in Uyo at the weekend, said the operation, which led to the arrest of seven suspects followed ongoing efforts to curb violent crimes across the State.

She said the operation was initiated following the killing of one of the gang leaders during a robbery attempt and subsequent arrest of the gang leader, who was hiding in Imo State.

John explained further that “the gang leader’s confession provided critical information that led Police operatives to their operational base.”

“At approximately 02:30 am on August 8, 2025, a team of operatives launched a raid on the syndicate’s hideout located in Ikot Osong village, Obot Akara LGA. This location also served as a shrine where the suspects reportedly fortify themselves before their operations,” she narrated.

The Police Spokesperson named the arrested suspects to include David Effiong Silas, 29, a.k.a. “Davido”; Etido Udo Lazarus, 26; Ime Effiong Silas, 27, and a 25-year-old female accomplice, Etimbuk Thursday Udofia.

The other suspects include Joseph John Nelson, male, 31; Nduese Solomon John, 32, and 22-year-old Imo Effiong Udofia.

She listed some incriminating items recovered during the operation as one locally-made cut-to-size double-barrel gun, two expended cartridges and one live cartridge, one live 7.62 mm AK-47 ammunition five motorcycles and one bicycle.

Also recovered were three face masks, two power banks, multiple mobile phones, a police-crested cap, army camouflage cap, suspected charms and a liquid substance used for native protection.

The PPRO revealed that investigation was currently ongoing to recover more stolen items and apprehend other members of the syndicate still at large.

The Command also reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all citizens.