Police arrest cult leader in Ikono during early morning raid.

The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested four suspects, including a notorious cult leader, during an ongoing crackdown on armed robbery, kidnapping, and vandalism across the state.

CBI News reports that the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Timfon John, disclosed this on Friday, August 29, at the Command headquarters in Uyo.

She said the operations were carried out in Uyo and Ikono local government areas.

“At approximately 05:17 hours, operatives of the Command successfully raided a criminal hideout in Itak Village in Ikono LGA. Credible intelligence led to the arrest of one Emmanuel Emmanuel Anthony, a 26-year-old suspected member of a cult group,” John stated.

Recovered items from the suspect included a locally fabricated pistol, an Ekpo masquerade mask, and a bag of charms.

The Command also arrested three other suspects linked to persistent vandalism and theft of properties belonging to the Akwa Ibom State Water Company (AISWC).

According to DSP John, the arrests took place between August 18 and 21, following investigations based on credible intelligence.

“Operatives responded to a tip regarding the theft of armored cables from the Water Company on Brooks Street in Uyo. The police team quickly mobilised, leading to the arrest of two suspects at the scene,” she said.

The arrested suspects were identified as Itoro Moses David and Patrick Effiom.

Their confessions later led to the capture of a third accomplice, Edidiong Edet Edet, described as a notorious gang member.

CBI News reports that DSP John confirmed that the stolen armored cables had been recovered and investigations were ongoing.

She added that efforts were underway to arrest other members of the syndicate, assuring that the suspects would be arraigned in court upon conclusion of investigations.