The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has recorded significant operational successes following the arrest of a suspected fraud syndicate in Uyo and the rescue of an abducted child in Abak Local Government Area.
The Command disclosed that the operations, carried out on different dates in January and February 2026, were driven by timely intelligence, swift response, and effective collaboration with community members.
Police sources confirmed that the actions led to the arrest of four suspects, the rescue of vulnerable victims, and the recovery of items linked to criminal activities across the State.
Fraud Syndicate Dismantled in Uyo
On Monday, February 3, 2026, at about 3:30 p.m., police operatives dismantled a suspected fraud syndicate operating within Uyo metropolis and surrounding communities.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, the operation followed credible intelligence provided by a concerned and public-spirited resident.
The intelligence exposed the activities of a criminal group locally referred to as “Utotoh,” which allegedly specialized in deceiving unsuspecting members of the public.
Investigators said the suspects used an operational tricycle to lure victims before dispossessing them of money and valuables through deceptive means.
Acting on the information, police operatives swiftly intercepted the suspects and arrested three men during the operation.
Those arrested were identified as Otoabasi Ekpeyong, 51, Ubong Sylvanus, 42, and Sunday Akpan, 60.
During the arrest, an 81-year-old pensioner, identified as Friday, was rescued unhurt from the suspects.
Police recovered a tricycle with registration number UFG-886-QA, reportedly used by the suspects to carry out fraudulent activities.
Preliminary investigation revealed that the suspects confessed to defrauding several individuals within Uyo and its environs.
DSP John stated that investigation remains ongoing to identify other victims and track additional members of the syndicate.
Abducted Child Rescued in Abak LGA
In a separate operation, police operatives rescued an abducted child and arrested a suspect in Abak Local Government Area on Wednesday, January 22, 2026.
The incident occurred at about 2:40 p.m. following a distress call from a resident, identified as Uwem, aged 32.
Police sources said Uwem reported that a female pupil had been forcefully abducted and dragged into a nearby bush by an unknown individual.
Responding immediately, the Police Command deployed operatives to the scene and initiated a coordinated search operation.
Police operatives worked in synergy with vigilant youths of the community to comb the surrounding bush and adjoining areas.
The search led to the arrest of Saturday Ofonmbuk, 29, of Afaha Ikot Inyang Village in Ukanafun Local Government Area.
During the operation, police rescued a female child, about three years old, whose identity was withheld for security reasons.
The child was found safe and unharmed and was immediately reunited with her family.
DSP John said preliminary investigation is ongoing to establish the suspect’s motive and determine whether he has accomplices.
Police Warn Criminals, Reaffirm Commitment to Public Safety
Reacting to the incidents, the Akwa Ibom State Police Command warned criminals that the State will not tolerate fraud, child abduction, or related offences.
DSP Timfon John said the Command remains resolute in its constitutional responsibility to protect lives and property.
He urged members of the public to continue providing credible information, noting that intelligence remains critical to crime prevention.
The Command also commended community members in Abak for their vigilance and cooperation, describing their actions as instrumental to the child’s rescue.
Police assured residents that all suspects would be prosecuted in accordance with the law after the conclusion of investigations.
