The Akwa Ibom State Police Command says it has arrested five suspected cultists and armed robbers linked to a recent case of armed robbery and rape at a guest house in Abak.
This is contained in a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Timfon John, and made available to newsmen in Uyo on Tuesday.
John said the suspects were arrested following a discreet investigation launched after the Command received a formal complaint from a male victim (name withheld) on June 26, 2025.
She said the victim had reported that a group of armed men invaded his room at a guest house (name withheld) in Abak, robbed him of his belongings, and raped his female guest.
“Following a directive by the Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, operatives of the Command swung into action and, on July 30, 2025, at about 11:10 p.m., raided the suspects’ hideout.
“The operation led to the arrest of the following suspects: Richard Edet Udo, Hope Unibong Anitie, Joseph Ibongidi, Christian Joseph Johnny, and Joseph Joseph,” she said.
The statement added that items recovered at the hideout included two coffins containing used female sanitary pads, photographs of people, and other suspected fetish objects.
John said the suspects were currently in custody while efforts were ongoing to apprehend other members of the gang.
She reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to ridding the state of criminal elements and urged the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with the police.