In a decisive operation carried out on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, at about 6:30 PM, officers of the Akwa Ibom State Police Command, acting on credible intelligence, raided a suspected cultists’ hideout in Ikot Etuk Village, Ibesikpo Asutan Local Government Area.
The operation led to the arrest of five suspected cult members and the recovery of dangerous weapons and charms believed to be used for criminal activities.
Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, in a statement on Thursday listed items recovered to include, One locally made pistol, One fabricated single-barrel gun and Assorted charms
Suspects arrested included Utibe Edem Asuquo, male, 31, Godwin Edet Edem, male, 32, Usen Edem Eyo, male, 29, Aniebiet Edet Edem, male, 28 and Anthony Dominic Edem, male, 32
During interrogation, the suspects voluntarily confessed to several unlawful acts, including a recent violent attack on Fulani herdsmen, during which two cows were killed.
The stolen livestock was reportedly distributed among cult groups operating within the Ibesikpo Asutan area.
Efforts are ongoing to track down additional fleeing gang members and recover more weapons.
The Command assured the public that no stone will be left unturned in its commitment to rooting out criminal elements and maintaining peace and security across the state.