By Solomon OKPO
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has uncovered and dismantled a criminal hideout masquerading as a church, arresting seven suspects and recovering firearms and other incriminating items during a targeted operation.
The breakthrough followed an intelligence-driven raid carried out at about 6:00 a.m. on April 8, 2026, as part of ongoing efforts to rid the state of criminal elements in line with directives from the Inspector-General of Police.
Police spokesperson, DSP Timfon John, disclosed in a statement that operatives acted on credible intelligence indicating that suspected criminals were operating from a compound disguised as a place of worship.
Those arrested during the operation were identified as Preacher Brain Ebeka, Kenneth Eziekiel, Dickson Ndueso, Abang Rowland, Esther Elijah Okon, Joy Elijah Okon, and another Esther Elijah Okon.
A search of the premises led to the recovery of several items, including two locally made double-barrel guns, five expended cartridges, four motorcycles, and three large generators. Other exhibits recovered were ten mobile phones, a police crest, four jungle boots, a peak cap, a saw blade, a spanner, multiple vehicle plate numbers, five machetes, and a special forces vest.
Police also found bottles of suspected spiritual oil and an enlarged photograph believed to be connected to ongoing investigations.
Preliminary findings, according to the Command, indicate that the facility was being used as a cover for criminal operations, raising concerns over the exploitation of religious platforms for unlawful activities.
The Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, has ordered a comprehensive investigation and intensified efforts to apprehend a principal suspect who is currently at large.
The Command warned that it would not tolerate any attempt to shield criminal activities under religious or other disguises, stressing that offenders would face the full weight of the law.
Residents were urged to remain vigilant and support security agencies with timely and credible information, as the Police reaffirmed their commitment to protecting lives and property across the state.
