05/11/2025
VILLAGE HEAD ON THE RUN AS POLICE DISMANTLE MILITANT SYNDICATE IN AKWA IBOM
… CP Azare Vows No Hiding Place for Criminals
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has declared the Village Head of Ine Eyoabasi Fishing Village wanted following revelations of his alleged involvement in a militant and piracy network terrorizing the state’s coastal communities.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, disclosed this on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, during a press briefing at the State Headquarters, Uyo, where he detailed recent security breakthroughs achieved by the Command.
According to CP Azare, on November 3, 2025, the Command, in collaboration with the Marine Hunters, intercepted and arrested one Samuel Geofrey (27), a suspected militant from Bayelsa State. During interrogation, the suspect confessed that his rifle was being kept by Kingdom Bane, the Village Head of Ine Eyoabasi Fishing Village.
“Upon sighting our operatives, the Village Head fled. However, a thorough search of his residence led to the recovery of several items suspected to have been stolen from sea travelers,” the Commissioner stated.
Recovered exhibits include multiple marine engines (40HP, 15HP, and 8HP), power heads, gearboxes, generators, a deep freezer, toilet fittings, a sewing machine, and several other household items. Also recovered was a bag containing personal effects and identification belonging to Chibuike Vincent Awah of Onitsha, Anambra State.
While the suspect, Geofrey, remains in custody, CP Azare assured that efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing Village Head, emphasizing that no criminal, regardless of position or title, will evade justice.
“This operation underscores our unrelenting resolve to dismantle criminal networks from the creeks of Mbo to the heart of Uyo. We will pursue every suspect until justice is served,” he affirmed.
The Police Commissioner further highlighted other major achievements recorded by the Command, including:
• The neutralization of an illegal gun manufacturing factory at Ekiti Itam Village, Itu LGA, with two suspects arrested and locally made fi****ms and tools recovered.
• The arrest of suspected phone and tricycle thieves, found in possession of over 70 stolen mobile phones and three tricycles.
• The apprehension of cult leaders involved in illegal masquerade processions, armed road blockages, and extortion.
• The dismantling of robbery syndicates, including motorcycle snatchers operating between Akwa Ibom and Rivers States.
• The recovery of ammunition and cartridges through intelligence provided by vigilant residents.
CP Azare commended the Command’s operatives for their professionalism and dedication while expressing appreciation to residents for their continuous cooperation. He also urged individuals whose properties or phones were stolen to visit the Command for identification and possible recovery.
“We remain resolute in ensuring that Akwa Ibom continues to be one of the safest states in Nigeria. Criminals must know — there is no hiding place,” he declared.
The Police Boss reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to intelligence-led policing, inter-agency synergy, and community collaboration, emphasizing that the collective effort of citizens remains vital in sustaining peace and security across the state.
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