By Dennis Udoma
In a major security breakthrough, the Akwa Ibom State Police Command has smashed a notorious car theft syndicate operating in the state.
The operation by the Police on Thursday was successful following the arrest of key members of the squad, and recovering a stolen vehicle along with a cache of incriminating items.
According to the Police, “the breakthrough followed the recovery of a stolen vehicle on July 27, which sparked a comprehensive investigation by the police.
“Acting on credible intelligence, we made further arrests on July 30 around 4:30 p.m., leading to the dismantling of the criminal ring”.
A statement by the Police said, the success of the operation hinged on the confession of a suspect, Otoabasi George Ime, 42, from Use Abat Village in Ibiono Ibom Local Government Area, who had earlier been arrested in connection with the stolen vehicle.
Those also arrested in the follow-up operations included; Uwem Okon Umoh, is alleged to be a mastermind and lead fabricator, Umoh Joseph Essien, identified as the syndicate’s mechanic, Ukpong Jeremiah Udo, was inn charge of vehicle electrical rewiring, Uchenna Peter Ihekandu, an alleged buyer of stolen vehicles from the syndicates and Peter Madu Abuchi, allegedly responsible for cash transfer operations.
During a search, police recovered several items linked to the group’s illegal operations, including; Nine vehicle number plates, four yards of army camouflage fabric and two face caps.
Other items also recovered from the gang are; Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) reflective jacket, face cap and a file jacket containing various vehicle documents.
The suspects have confessed to stealing at least nine vehicles across the state.
Commissioner of Police, Baba Mohammed Azare praised the effort of the investigating officers for their swift, and thorough work in busting the gang stating that, investigations were ongoing to recover more stolen vehicles and tools/weapons used by the syndicate.
While reiterating the Command’s resolve to ensure the safety of lives and property across the State, urged members of the public to remain alert and report suspicious activities in their communities.
