The Akwa Ibom Police Command has arrested seven individuals believed to be part of a burglary gang operating around Ifa Atai village in Uyo, the state capital. The arrests were made following a police operation based on reliable intelligence.
According to a statement issued on Thursday by the Police Public Relations Officer, Deputy Superintendent of Police Timfon John, the operation began on the morning of Wednesday, May 21. Around 8 a.m., officers tracked and arrested a male suspect from Ibiaku Ishiet village in Uruan Local Government Area.
During questioning, the suspect reportedly admitted to being involved in a string of break-ins across Ifa Atai village and other parts of Uyo. He also gave up the names of others in his group.
The interrogation led police to six other individuals who are suspected of purchasing or keeping items stolen during the robberies. Police say these suspects are also being investigated for their roles in supporting the gang’s operations.
DSP John also noted that the main suspect claimed to be a member of a secret cult group known as the Mafia. He reportedly gave further information on the group and its members, which authorities are now using to extend their investigation.
A search was carried out at the homes of the arrested suspects, and several stolen items were recovered. Among the items found were a power generator, multiple iron rods, eight solar-powered batteries, as well as nails and binding wires, all believed to have been looted during the burglaries.
Police say the investigation is still ongoing, and more arrests may follow as they track down other individuals linked to the group.
