Police Bust Robbery Gang, Arrest Suspect, Recover Firearms

Operatives of the Akwa Ibom State Police Command at Ikot Akpanabia, Uyo, the state capital, have busted a syndicate of hoodlums robbing unsuspecting members of the public of cash and other personal belongings at gunpoint.

The Police Spokesperson, DSP Timfon John, said the operation was achieved by officers and men of the command along the Oron Road axis of the Uyo metropolis, who were redeployed to a robbery scene following intelligence volunteered by a concerned local resident.

She said, “The state police command has recorded another significant operational success in its sustained campaign against violent crime and criminal elements across the State.

“On Saturday, June 27, 2026, at about 10:30 p.m., operatives of the command deployed on stop-and-search duty along Mayflower axis of Oron Road, Uyo, responded to a distress call from a concerned resident of Ikot Okubo Village, Uyo local government area, that suspected armed robbers were operating within the community.

“Acting on the information, the operatives mobilised to the scene with vigilant members to cordon off and comb the affected area.

“The coordinated operation led to the arrest of one suspect identified as Edidiong Udoeyen, while a medium-sized locally fabricated firearm was recovered from his possession.

“Other members of the criminal gang fled the scene upon sighting the Police. However, the Command has immediately launched a manhunt to apprehend the fleeing suspects and ensure they are brought to justice.”

The arrested suspect, DSP John , stated, was currently in Police custody, and helping the investigators with useful information with which to track down the other fleeing suspects and dismantle the network.

“The Commissioner of Police, Akwa Ibom State Command, commends the courage, vigilance, and timely intervention of members of the community whose prompt information greatly aided the success of the operation. He reiterates that effective policing thrives on active partnership between the police and the public.

“He has also assured residents that the Command remains resolute in its commitment to protecting lives and property and will continue to sustain intelligence-led and proactive policing strategies aimed at denying criminals any safe haven within the State. He therefore urges members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to the Police, assuring them that all information will be treated with utmost confidentiality.

“The Akwa Ibom State Police Command remains steadfast in its determination to rid the State of all forms of criminality and ensure that residents continue to live and conduct their lawful activities in a safe and secure environment,” she stressed.