The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has uncovered a criminal hideout masquerading as a church, arresting seven suspects and recovering firearms, suspected stolen items and fake security gear.
The operation was carried out in Ndiya mfia village, Ikono LGA at about 6:00am on April 8, 2026, following actionable intelligence that suspected criminals were operating from a compound disguised as a place of worship.
A release signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John and made available to journalists in Uyo on Wednesday, said the raid was part of ongoing efforts to dismantle criminal networks across the state.
Those arrested include a self-acclaimed preacher, Brain Ebeka, alongside Kenneth Ezekiel, Dickson Ndueo, Abang Rowland, and three female suspects identified as Esther Elijah Okon and Joy Elijah Okon.
A search of the premises led to the recovery of two locally made double-barrel guns, five expended cartridges, five machetes, and several items suggesting impersonation of security personnel, including a police crest, jungle boots and a special forces vest.
Other exhibits recovered include four motorcycles, three large generators, ten mobile phones, multiple vehicle plate numbers, a saw blade, a spanner, bottles of suspected spiritual oil, and an enlarged photograph linked to ongoing investigations, the statement said.
Police sources said preliminary findings indicate that the location was being used as a base for coordinated criminal operations under the guise of religious activities.
The Commissioner of Police, Baba Mohammed Azare, ordered a full-scale investigation and directed operatives to intensify efforts to apprehend a principal suspect still at large.
“The Command will not tolerate any attempt to disguise criminal activities under any cover, religious or otherwise. There will be no hiding place for criminals in Akwa Ibom State,” the police boss warned.
The Command reiterated its resolve to sustain intelligence-led operations aimed at flushing out criminal elements and restoring public confidence in security in the state.
