The arrests were carried out between September 5 and 9, 2026, following intelligence received by the police about a suspected criminal gang operating in parts of Akwa Ibom. According to the state Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, the operation covered Ikono, Ini, Obot Akara and Ikot Ekpene Local Government Areas. Police said the intelligence indicated that members of the gang were moving towards Ini Local Government Area to carry out a criminal operation.
The police said operatives launched a pursuit which extended to the boundary between Akwa Ibom and Abia states. Three suspected members of the gang, including a person described by police as the alleged ringleader, were intercepted and arrested. Police said one other suspect escaped during the operation. Further investigation and intelligence-led interrogation later resulted in the arrest of three additional suspects, bringing the total number in custody to six.
Police identified the suspects as Gideon Udoh, Martins Udo, Bassey Ukpong, Aniebiet Dominic, David Idaha and Joseph Udo. The command said preliminary investigations had linked the suspects to alleged armed robbery, kidnapping, car snatching, rape, cult-related activities, drug dealing, extortion and attempted murder in parts of Akwa Ibom and neighbouring states. These remain allegations, and the suspects have not been convicted of the offences.
According to the police, officers recovered two locally fabricated firearms, two live cartridges, three expended cartridges and six serviceable motorcycles suspected to have been stolen. The recovery of the motorcycles is part of the evidence being examined as investigators continue to establish the suspects' alleged involvement in criminal activities.
The State Commissioner of Police, Baba Mohammed Azare, commended the officers involved in the operation and urged residents to remain vigilant. He also called on members of the public to provide credible information about suspicious activities, saying such information would be treated confidentially.
The arrests form part of wider police operations against suspected criminal networks in Akwa Ibom and other parts of Nigeria. Police authorities say intelligence-led operations and cooperation with members of the public remain important in identifying suspects and recovering property believed to have been stolen.
The investigation into the Akwa Ibom case is continuing, while police are also working to identify and apprehend other people who may be connected to the alleged gang. The suspects are expected to remain subject to investigation and due legal process.
