Police Nab Three Suspected Robbers, Recover Weapons in Akwa Ibom
According to a statement issued on Tuesday by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, the suspects were arrested on February 17, 2025, around 7:20 a.m. after allegedly breaking into the room of a retired army officer’s son and stealing ₦100,000 at gunpoint.
UYO – The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested three suspected armed robbers and cultists linked to a series of violent crimes in Ibesikpo Asutan Local Government Area. The suspects were apprehended in Akpautong Village during an intelligence-led operation that also led to the recovery of stolen items and dangerous weapons.
According to a statement issued on Tuesday by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, the suspects were arrested on February 17, 2025, around 7:20 a.m. after allegedly breaking into the room of a retired army officer’s son and stealing ₦100,000 at gunpoint.
The retired Staff Sergeant reported hearing gunshots at about 1:20 a.m. and identified one Kingsley Samuel, alias “Bobby,” leading the armed group. His son, Daniel Monday Dan, later confirmed the identities of the suspects, including Saviour Ime Philip, alias “Ibia,” Benjamin Joseph Asuquo, alias “Big Guy,” and Simon Monday Ekong.
The police also linked the gang to an earlier incident on February 16, 2025, in which a man from Akpambiet Village was attacked while attending a ceremony at Akpautong. The victim reported that the gang accused him of owing money to an associate and forced him to withdraw ₦206,000 at gunpoint using a POS terminal, in addition to extorting ₦10,000 in cash.
Acting swiftly on credible intelligence, police operatives intercepted the suspects as they attempted to flee on a tricycle and motorcycles. Three members of the gang were arrested, while others managed to escape. The arrested suspects were identified as Saviour Ime Philip, 25, and Benjamin Joshua, 29, both from Akpautong Village, and Simeon Monday, 29, from Odoronkit Village.
Items recovered during the operation included two cut-size shotguns, eight machetes, a tricycle, a motorcycle, a generator, assorted charms, various food items, and a television set.
DSP John described the suspects as part of a notorious gang involved in cult-related activities and armed robbery across neighbouring communities. She reiterated the Command’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property, urging the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities to the nearest police station.
