Police in Akwa Ibom State have arrested three members of a suspected robbery syndicate believed to have been terrorising residents of Ikot Ineme village in Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area, while the native doctor allegedly linked to the group has fled.
The state Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, disclosed this in a statement issued in Uyo on Monday.
According to the PPRO, two suspects — 40-year-old Akan Udo and 20-year-old Namso Monday — were apprehended after visiting the native doctor’s residence for treatment of an undisclosed ailment. Intelligence reports indicated that the native doctor was allegedly providing support to the criminal gang, prompting police operatives to storm his residence. He reportedly escaped during the operation.
Further investigation led to the arrest of a third suspect, identified as Mbata Udo, in connection with the robbery activities.
Items recovered from the suspects include one locally made pistol, one locally made revolver pistol, 16 machetes, six mobile phones, two generators, a battle axe, a pair of pliers and other suspected incriminating materials.
DSP John said investigations are ongoing, and the suspects will be charged to court once the process is completed.