By Augustine Ehikioya
Following intelligence-driven operation, the Akwa Ibom State Police Command has recorded another major breakthrough in its sustained crackdown on criminal elements across the State, in line with the directive of the Inspector-General of Police to decisively combat crime.
Uncovering that suspected criminals were hibernating in a compound disguised as a church, the Command swiftly mobilised for a targeted operation at about 0600hrs on 8th April, 2026.
This was disclosed in a statement by DSP Timfon John, Police Public Relations Officer, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, Akwa Ibom State Police Command. It was made available to Security Watch Africa (SWA).
It reads “The operation led to the arrest of seven (7) suspects, namely: Preacher Brain Ebeka ‘M’, Kenneth Ezekiel ‘M’, Dickson Ndueso ‘M’, Abang Rowland ‘M’, Esther Elijah Okon ‘F’ and Joy Elijah Okon ‘F’.
The statement added that a thorough search of the premises led to the recovery of the following exhibits: Two (2) locally made double-barrel guns, Five (5) expended cartridges, Four (4) motorcycles, Three (3) large generators, Ten (10) mobile phones, One police crest, Four (4) jungle boots, One peak cap, One saw blade and One spanner, Several plate numbers, Five (5) machetes, One special forces vest, Bottles of suspected spiritual oil, and One enlarged photograph linked to ongoing investigation.
Preliminary investigation, it said, suggested that the location was being used as a cover for criminal operations, raising serious concerns about the misuse of religious fronts for unlawful activities.
The Commissioner of Police, Akwa Ibom State Command, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, has directed a comprehensive investigation into the matter and intensified efforts to apprehend the principal suspect currently at large.
The Command warned all criminal elements in the State that there will be no hiding place.
“Any attempt to disguise criminal activities under any cover religious or otherwise will be met with the full weight of the law.
“Members of the public are advised to remain vigilant and continue to support the Police by providing timely and credible information.
“The Command remains resolute in its commitment to safeguarding lives and property across Akwa Ibom State,” it stated.
