A major security breakthrough has been recorded in Akwa Ibom State following the discovery of a suspected criminal hideout operating under the guise of a church.
The operation led to the arrest of seven suspects and the recovery of firearms and other incriminating items.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Akwa Ibom State Police Command disclosed that the operation was carried out in the early hours of the day based on credible intelligence that criminal elements were using a religious facility as a cover for illicit activities.
Police operatives stormed the location at about 6:00 a.m., successfully apprehending seven individuals, including a self-acclaimed preacher identified as Brian Ebeka.
Others arrested include Kenneth Eziekiel, Dickson Ndueso, Abang Rowland, and three women: Esther Elijah Okon, Joy Elijah Okon, and another Esther Elijah Okon.
A search of the premises uncovered a cache of weapons and suspicious items, including two locally made double-barreled guns, five expended cartridges, machetes, and a range of equipment suggestive of coordinated criminal operations.
Authorities also recovered items linked to security impersonation, such as a police crest, jungle boots, a peak cap, and a special forces vest.
Additional exhibits found at the scene include motorcycles, generators, multiple mobile phones, plate numbers, and substances described as “suspected spiritual oil,” reinforcing concerns that the location was being used to mask illegal activities under a religious façade.
The police said preliminary investigations indicate that the site functioned as a base for criminal operations, raising alarm over the growing trend of using religious fronts to evade law enforcement.
Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, ordered a full-scale investigation and directed officers to intensify efforts to apprehend a principal suspect who remains at large.
The command issued a strong warning to criminal elements, emphasizing that no cover, religious or otherwise; will shield offenders from justice.
Residents have been urged to remain vigilant and support security agencies with timely and credible information as efforts continue to rid the state of criminal networks.
