Police in Akwa Ibom State have arrested six suspected members and associates of an armed robbery gang. This took place during coordinated operations across three local government areas.
According to Channels, the suspects were arrested in the early hours of Thursday. The arrests happened during raids on identified hideouts in Ikono, Ini and Obot Akara.
The operation followed intelligence gathering aimed at dismantling a criminal network allegedly involved in armed robbery. The gang was also suspected of motorcycle theft and the disposal of stolen property.
“During the operation, six suspects were apprehended, including a suspected native doctor,” police spokesperson DSP Timfon John said in a statement.
Native doctor, alleged receipt maker arrested
Police alleged that the suspected native doctor provided charms and other preparations to members of the gang.
Another suspect was accused of producing fake receipts that were allegedly used to facilitate the sale of stolen motorcycles and other items.
Officers recovered two single-barrel shotguns, three laptops and a motorcycle suspected to have been stolen.
Local charms and other items were also recovered from the suspected native doctor’s shrine.
Police intensify investigation
The Commissioner of Police has directed investigators to establish the individual roles allegedly played by each suspect. In addition, they are to recover additional stolen property.
Operatives are also searching for other suspected members and collaborators who remain at large.
The command said the arrests formed part of continuing intelligence-led operations against armed robbery and other violent crimes across Akwa Ibom State.
