By Adesakin Adefemi
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested a suspected fake preacher and six others following a raid on a hideout disguised as a church in Ndiya Mfia village, Ikono Local Government Area of the state.
The suspects were arrested at about 0600 hours on Wednesday after operatives, acting on intelligence, stormed the location. Items recovered include two locally made double-barrel guns, five expended cartridges, four motorcycles, three large generators, ten mobile phones, a police crest, and other items.
Those arrested include Brain Ebeka, identified as a preacher; Kenneth Ezekiel; Dickson Ndueso; Abang Rowland, and three female suspects, Esther Elijah Okon, Joy Elijah Okon, and another Esther Elijah Okon.
The police spokesperson, DSP Timfon John, said in a statement that the operation was part of the command’s sustained crackdown on criminal elements across the state.
Preliminary investigation suggests that the location was being used as a cover for criminal operations, raising concerns about the misuse of religious fronts for unlawful activities.
The Commissioner of Police, Akwa Ibom State Command, CP Baba Azare, has directed a comprehensive investigation into the matter and intensified efforts to apprehend the principal suspect, who is currently at large.
The command warned criminal elements in the state that there is no hiding place, adding that any attempt to disguise criminal activities under any cover, religious or otherwise, will be met with the full weight of the law.
The police are urging members of the public to remain vigilant and continue to support them by providing timely and credible information.
The arrest is part of the police’s ongoing efforts to safeguard lives and property across the state, and to ensure that those involved in criminal activities face justice, regardless of their attempts to hide behind false pretenses. The police command reassures the public of its commitment to maintaining peace and security in the state.
