In a renewed offensive against criminal activities, the Akwa Ibom State Police Command has recorded a string of successful arrests involving suspected cultists, a vehicle thief, and a burglary suspect in Ibesikpo and Uyo.
The first breakthrough came on Sunday, July 14, when operatives acting on intelligence stormed Ikot Ambon village and arrested two alleged cultists, identified as Goodwill Nyong Ekwere (26) and Obon Asukwo Udom (33) — both natives of Nung Ukana village.
During the operation, police recovered a locally made double-barrel gun, two live cartridges, a wrap of suspected Indian hemp, and ₦200 cash.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, the suspects confessed to being members of the notorious Vikings cult group. A manhunt is currently underway to apprehend their fleeing accomplices.
In a separate incident on Tuesday, July 15, at around 6:50am, police arrested Solomon Anthony John of Nsit Ubium LGA for allegedly stealing a Mercedes Benz truck with registration number UWN 84 XD. The vehicle has since been recovered and impounded as investigations continue.
The same morning, officers responded to a distress call at Itiam Bus Stop along Oron Road in Uyo, where a group of men was seen wheeling away a split-unit air conditioner under suspicious circumstances. The suspects fled upon sighting police, but 24-year-old Gift Orji Ogbuji was apprehended after a chase.
Items recovered at the scene included, one Samsung split-unit air-conditioner and one petrol dispensing machine
The suspect is in custody, and efforts are ongoing to track down other gang members and recover more stolen property.
The Akwa Ibom Police Command has urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. “Our commitment to securing lives and property remains unwavering,” DSP John assured.