Akwa Ibom Police Dismantle Criminal Den Posing as Church, Arrest Seven

The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has successfully disrupted a criminal operation that was masquerading as a place of worship. A spokesperson for the command, DSP Timfon John, announced that seven suspects, comprising four men and three women, were taken into custody following an operation conducted on April 8, 2026.

Initial investigations indicate that the premises were being utilized as a cover for various unlawful activities, according to the Public Relations Officer.

"In a decisive, 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," the statement from the command detailed.

"Acting on credible intelligence indicating that suspected criminals were hibernating in a compound disguised as a church, the Command swiftly mobilized for a targeted operation. At about 0600hrs on 8th April 2026."

The operation resulted in the arrest of the following individuals: PREACHER BRAIN EBEKA, KENNETH EZIEKIEL, DICKSON NDUESO, ABANG ROWLAND, ESTHER ELIJAH OKON, JOY ELIJAH OKON, and another ESTHER ELIJAH OKON.

A comprehensive search of the site yielded several items, including two locally manufactured double-barrel guns, five spent cartridges, four motorcycles, three large generators, ten mobile phones, a police crest, four pairs of jungle boots, a peaked cap, a saw blade, a spanner, multiple vehicle number plates, five machetes, a special forces vest, bottles of suspected spiritual oil, and an enlarged photograph believed to be connected to ongoing investigations.

Early findings suggest that the location was being used to facilitate criminal enterprises, raising significant concerns regarding the exploitation of religious sanctuaries for illegal purposes.

The Commissioner of Police for Akwa Ibom State, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, fsi, has ordered a thorough investigation into the incident and is intensifying efforts to apprehend the primary suspect, who is currently at large.

The Command issued a strong warning to all individuals involved in criminal activities within the state, asserting that no safe havens will be permitted. The police emphasized that any attempts to conceal criminal acts under any guise, including religious fronts, will be met with the full force of the law.

Citizens are encouraged to maintain vigilance and continue their cooperation with the police by promptly providing reliable information.

"The Command remains resolute in its commitment to safeguarding lives and property across Akwa Ibom State."