Cross River State Police Command has recorded major breakthroughs in its fight against crime with the arrest of suspected members of a burglary syndicate in Calabar and the recovery of a locally fabricated firearm from a suspect in Ikom Local Government Area.
Police said four suspected members of a burglary and stealing gang believed to be responsible for a series of break-ins across the Calabar metropolis were arrested following an intelligence-led operation by operatives of the Uwanse Division.
The suspects were identified as Effiong Ene, 27; Hope Linus, 18; Patrick Etim, 26; and Maurice Asuquo, 27. According to the Command, the operation was launched on June 4 after credible intelligence and sustained surveillance led officers to the arrest of Effiong Ene, described as a notorious burglary suspect.
Investigators said the suspect subsequently led operatives to the hideouts of other gang members, resulting in the recovery of a large cache of suspected stolen property.
The exhibits include plasma televisions, laptops, decoders, household appliances, refrigerators, gas cylinders, solar equipment, POS machines, clothing items and several tools allegedly used in burglary operations.
Police sources said the suspects are believed to be linked to a gang popularly referred to by residents as the “White Cap Gang,” which has been associated with house break-ins in parts of Calabar South and adjoining communities.
Authorities, however, said investigations are ongoing to establish the full extent of the group’s activities and apprehend other fleeing members.
The recovered items, which filled several exhibits racks, are believed to have been stolen from homes and business premises across the metropolis. Police have commenced efforts to identify the rightful owners and reunite them with their property.
In a separate operation on the same day, operatives of the Ikom Division arrested one Asu Ebolom, 36, during a routine patrol and surveillance exercise around Atimaka Trailer Park in Ikom.
A search conducted on the suspect led to the recovery of a locally fabricated pistol concealed in his possession.
The suspect was immediately taken into custody while investigators began efforts to determine the source of the firearm and whether it is linked to any criminal activities within or outside the area.
Commending officers involved in the operations, the Commissioner of Police in Cross River State, CP Rashid B. Afegbua, praised their professionalism, resilience and dedication to duty.
He reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to intelligence-led policing and the protection of lives and property across the state.
Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eitokpah Sunday Akata, said investigations have been intensified to trace additional suspects and dismantle any criminal networks connected to the cases.
He urged residents to remain vigilant and continue providing credible information to assist security agencies in combating crime.