Police Raid Church-Disguised Criminal Hideout, Arrest Seven Suspects

Police Raid Church-Disguised Criminal Hideout, Arrest Seven Suspects

In a decisive intelligence-led operation, the Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested seven suspects after raiding a criminal hideout disguised as a church in Ndiya Mfia village, Ikono Local Government Area. The early morning operation on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, marks another breakthrough in the state’s ongoing efforts to curb crime.

The operation, confirmed by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, followed credible intelligence indicating that criminals were hiding under the guise of a religious facility. Police operatives swooped on the premises at about 6:00 a.m., leading to the arrest of seven suspects and the seizure of several items linked to criminal activity.

During the raid, officers recovered two locally made double-barrel guns, five expended cartridges, four motorcycles, three large generators, ten mobile phones, one police crest, and other items used in criminal operations. The seizure underscores the serious nature of the criminal activities being carried out under the church disguise.

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The suspects taken into custody include Preacher Brain Ebeka, Kenneth Ezekiel, Dickson Ndueso, Abang Rowland, Esther Elijah Okon, Joy Elijah Okon, and another Esther Elijah Okon. Preliminary investigations revealed that the church facade was being used to mask unlawful activities, highlighting the misuse of religious institutions as a cover for crime.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Azare, has ordered a comprehensive investigation into the raid and intensified efforts to apprehend the principal suspect, who remains at large. The police warned that any attempt to disguise criminal activities under religious or other fronts will face severe legal consequences.

The command also urged members of the public to remain vigilant, continue providing timely and credible information, and support law enforcement in safeguarding lives and property across the state. The operation aligns with directives from the Inspector-General of Police to decisively combat crime and dismantle criminal networks.

This operation demonstrates the effectiveness of intelligence-driven policing in targeting criminals exploiting unsuspecting citizens and religious institutions, reinforcing public confidence in law enforcement efforts across Akwa Ibom State.

Police Raid Church-Disguised Criminal Hideout, Arrest Seven Suspects