Police raid alleged criminal hideout disguised as church in Akwa Ibom, arrest seven

Police in Akwa Ibom State have arrested seven suspects and recovered firearms and other items during a raid on a facility allegedly operating as a criminal hideout under the cover of a church in Ikono Local Government Area.

The operation took place early Wednesday at Ndiya Mfia community following intelligence reports that suspected criminals were using the location as a front for illegal activities.

According to the police spokesperson in the state, the facility was led by a suspect identified as Brain Ebeka, who reportedly presented himself as a preacher. The building was also identified as “All Power Belong to Me”.

Three women were among those arrested. Other suspects include Kenneth Eziekiel, Dickson Ndueo, and Abang Rowland, alongside the female suspects identified as Esther Okon and Joy Okon.

A search of the premises led to the recovery of two locally made double-barrel guns and five expended cartridges. Officers also recovered motorcycles, generators, mobile phones, and various tools and items including machetes, vehicle number plates, a police-style crest, jungle boots, a tactical vest, and containers holding suspected ritual substances. An enlarged photograph found at the scene is also under investigation.

Police say initial findings suggest the facility was being used to conceal criminal activity. Authorities have also confirmed that one suspect remains at large.

The Commissioner of Police in the state has ordered a full investigation and directed efforts to track down the fleeing suspect.

The raid follows earlier operations in the state targeting illegal arms production and drug-related activities.