Police storm criminal hideout disguised as Church, arrest seven, recover firearms
By Emmanuel Ntekim
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has recorded a breakthrough in its ongoing crackdown on criminal elements, following discovering of a suspected criminal hideout operating under the guise of a church.
The intelligence-led operation, carried out at about 6:00 a.m. on Tuesday, April 8, 2026, was in line with the directive of the Inspector-General of Police to intensify the fight against crime across the country.
According to the Police, credible intelligence revealed that suspected criminals were hibernating in a compound disguised as a place of worship, prompting a swift tactical response by operatives of the Command.
The operation led to the arrest of seven suspects, identified as Preacher Brain Ebeka, Kenneth Eziekiel, Dickson Ndueso, Abang Rowland, Esther Elijah Okon, Joy Elijah Okon, and another Esther Elijah Okon.
A thorough search of the premises, located at Ndiya Mfia Village in Ikono LGA, reportedly led to the recovery of several incriminating exhibits, including two locally made double-barrel guns, five expended cartridges, four motorcycles, three large generators, and 10 mobile phones.
Other items recovered were a police crest, four jungle boots, a peak cap, one saw blade, a spanner, several vehicle plate numbers, five machetes, a special forces vest, bottles of suspected spiritual oil, and an enlarged photograph said to be linked to an ongoing investigation.
Police preliminary findings suggest that the location was being used as a cover for criminal operations, raising concerns over the misuse of religious centres as fronts for unlawful activities.
The Commissioner of Police, Akwa Ibom State Command, Baba Mohammed Azare, has ordered a comprehensive investigation into the matter and directed intensified efforts to track down the principal suspect, who is currently at large.
The Command warned criminal elements in the state that there would be no hiding place for anyone disguising illegal activities under religious or other covers, stressing its resolve to ensure the safety of lives and property.
Residents were urged to remain vigilant and continue supporting the Police with timely and credible information.
