Akwa ibom State Police Command has arrested over 40 suspected armed robbers, kidnappers and cultists. It also rescued 12 victims, recovered 55 arms and uncovered a gun-making factory in Nsit Atal Local Government.
Commissioner of Police, Joseph Eribo, said: “This period of yuletide, the command is not taken chances with criminals. Our success reflect the dedication of our officers and men and their commitment to proactive policing, collaboration with sister security agencies and community engagement with useful information.
“The criminals were rounded up in their various hideouts and a gun-making factory of ammunition was uncovered. Operatives arrested father and son operating the factory and selling guns to criminals in Nsit Atal LG.
“We rescued five siblings abducted in Mbiakpan Ikot Idim village, Obio Ibiono in Ibiono Ibom LG. The suspects were given a hot chase and three of them arrested at Obio Ibiono. The five rescued victims unhurt and were reunited with their parents.
“Police Tactical Team operatives stormed kidnappers’ hideouts in Afaha Obong, Abak LG. They neutralised three suspected kidnappers during exchange of gunfire and rescued a director at the Ministry of Justice.
“Operatives arrested four suspected cultist members of Red Skin involved in armed robbery. They blocked the road in Uyo and collected two Itel Android phones. They also went to victims’ houses and robbed them of their belongings. Police arrested two suspects who are serial car snatchers.”
Eribo appealed to members of the public to collaborate by working synergy with security agencies in the area of intelligence sharing to stem crime in their domain.