Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
Security operatives in Akwa Ibom State have uncovered what authorities describe as a criminal network operating under the guise of a church, following an intelligence-led raid that resulted in the arrest of seven suspects and the recovery of weapons and other items linked to illicit activities.
The operation, carried out by the Akwa Ibom State Police Command in the early hours of April 8, 2026, targeted a compound located in Ndiya Mfia village in Ikono Local Government Area. According to official statements, the facility had been presented to the public as a place of worship but was allegedly being used as a base for coordinated criminal operations.
Police spokesperson DSP Timfon John confirmed that the raid followed credible intelligence reports indicating that suspected criminals were using the premises as a cover. Acting on this information, operatives stormed the location at about 6:00 a.m., leading to the arrest of seven individuals without reported resistance.
Among those arrested was a man identified as Brain Ebeka, described by authorities as a self-acclaimed preacher believed to be linked to the operation of the facility. Other suspects include Kenneth Ezekiel, Dickson Ndueso, Abang Rowland, and three women identified as Esther Elijah Okon and Joy Elijah Okon, along with another woman bearing the same surname. Investigators say efforts are ongoing to determine the roles played by each individual within the group.
A search of the premises uncovered a range of items that investigators believe are connected to criminal activity. These include two locally made double-barrel firearms, several expended cartridges, and machetes. Additional items recovered were four motorcycles, three large generators, and multiple mobile phones, suggesting the group maintained a structured and coordinated setup.
Authorities also reported the discovery of materials associated with possible impersonation of security personnel, including a police crest, jungle boots, a peak cap, and a special forces vest. Other recovered items included vehicle number plates, mechanical tools, and substances described as “suspected spiritual oil,” reinforcing suspicions that the group used religious symbolism as part of its operations.
Preliminary findings indicate that the building, reportedly known locally as “All Power Belongs to God,” functioned as a front to conceal criminal activities. The use of a religious identity is believed to have enabled the suspects to operate with minimal suspicion from the surrounding community.
The Commissioner of Police in Akwa Ibom State, Baba Mohammed Azare, has ordered a comprehensive investigation into the case. Police say efforts are ongoing to identify and apprehend a principal suspect believed to be at large, indicating that the arrested individuals may be part of a broader network operating within and possibly beyond the state.
The police command described the raid as a significant breakthrough in its ongoing crackdown on criminal elements. Officials emphasized that the operation aligns with broader security efforts aimed at dismantling networks involved in armed robbery, impersonation, and other organized crimes.
Residents in the affected community have expressed shock at the development, noting that the building had long been regarded as a legitimate religious center. Some locals reported that activities at the site occasionally raised suspicion due to irregular gatherings and unusual movements, but no formal complaints had been made prior to the police intervention.
Security analysts say the case underscores a growing trend in which criminal groups adopt unconventional methods to evade detection. By disguising operational bases as legitimate institutions, such groups are able to exploit public trust and reduce scrutiny, making law enforcement efforts more complex.
Authorities have urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities, particularly in cases where behavior appears inconsistent with the stated purpose of a facility. The police also reassured the public that legitimate religious institutions are respected and will not be targeted, stressing that enforcement actions are focused solely on individuals engaged in unlawful conduct.
Human rights observers have called for adherence to due process as investigations continue, emphasizing the importance of protecting the rights of the suspects while ensuring accountability. Proper documentation of evidence and transparent legal proceedings are expected to play a key role in maintaining public confidence in the justice system.
The suspects remain in police custody and are expected to be charged upon the conclusion of investigations. Police authorities have indicated that further arrests may follow as inquiries continue and additional evidence is gathered.
The incident has renewed discussions about the misuse of religious platforms in Nigeria, highlighting the need for stronger community awareness and cooperation with law enforcement. While such cases are not widespread, they carry significant implications for public trust and the integrity of religious institutions.
As the investigation progresses, authorities say they remain focused on dismantling any wider network connected to the suspects and preventing similar operations from taking root. The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has reiterated its commitment to safeguarding lives and property, emphasizing that no individual or group will be allowed to exploit societal institutions as a cover for criminal activity.
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