Police Smash Robbery Syndicate In Akwa Ibom

Operatives of the Akwa Ibom State Police Command have smashed a robbery syndicate specialising in ambushing and robbing passengers as well as traders.

The state’s Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), ASP Timfon John, while parading one of the suspects at the Command’s headquarters in Uyo, said the incident occurred around Ekom Iman axis of the State.

ASP John said the police team acted swiftly following a tip-off from one of the victims, leading to the arrest of one suspect identified as Ukpono Ekopntak and recovery of two motorcycles used in the operation while others fled with police on their trail.

She said, “The Akwa Ibom Police Command in its expanded efforts towards combating crime and criminal elements in the State, arrested an armed robbery suspect.

“The Police operatives while on routine ‘stop and search’ patrol at Ekom Iman roundabout, was approached by a businessman who was robbed of his valuables while on a business trip from Aba, Abia State.

“Immediately, operatives of the command gave the suspects a hot chase and one Ukpono Ekopntak, was arrested while others are still at large. Efforts are ongoing to arrest the fleeing members of the syndicate. Two motor bikes were recovered from the scene of the crime,” the spokesperson said.

Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Waheed Ayilara has reassured residents of the command’s unwavering commitment to rid the State of criminal minded elements.

According to the PPRO, the CP also sounded a note of warning to those belonging to clandestine groups to turn a new leaf and exit those groups, vowing that the command will not give them any room to thrive.