The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested four suspected criminals during a raid on a suspected criminal hideout in Uyo Local Government Area, recovering a locally made firearm, suspected hard drugs, charms and other items believed to be linked to criminal activities.
The operation, carried out by police operatives, was in line with the directives of the Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Azare, as part of ongoing efforts to tackle crime across the state.
Confirming the development, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, said officers acted on credible intelligence before storming the hideout at Mbiabong Ikot Essien, off Oron Road, on July 26, 2026, at about 7:30 p.m.
According to her, several suspects fled the scene after spotting the police team, but four people were successfully arrested during the operation.
The suspects were identified as:
- Idonranyen Bassey (18)
- Emmanuel Rafael (15)
- Messiah Vincent (21)
- Goodnews Ubong Bassey (16)
The police also recovered several exhibits believed to be connected to criminal activities, including a locally fabricated pistol, substances suspected to be Cannabis Sativa (Indian hemp), charms of various kinds, plumbing materials suspected to have been stolen, and packaged clothing items believed to be proceeds of theft.
“Acting on credible intelligence, police operatives stormed a suspected criminal hideout… Four suspects were apprehended during the operation,” DSP Timfon John said.
She added that the Commissioner of Police has reaffirmed the command’s commitment to protecting lives and property across Akwa Ibom State.
According to the police spokesperson, the command will continue to intensify operations against cultism, armed robbery, kidnapping, burglary, drug-related offences and other criminal activities.
The police also appealed to residents to remain vigilant and continue supporting security agencies by providing useful and timely information that could help prevent crime in the state.
Source: Akwa Ibom State Police Command.
