Akwa Ibom: Police arrest suspected armed robber in hotel hideout
Operatives from the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) of the Akwa Ibom State Police Command have apprehended a suspect linked to armed robbery activities in Uyo. The individual, identified as Ifiok Owoidem, was taken into custody at a hotel where he was reportedly hiding, according to a statement released by the police’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, on Tuesday.
The arrest followed actionable intelligence regarding alleged armed robberies that had been troubling residents of Ifa Atai and adjacent communities. Police reported that during the operation, they recovered two locally made pistols, one expanded cartridge, two machetes, and containers with substances believed to be charms.
According to the statement, the operation commenced on October 19, 2026, at approximately 7:00 PM, when the VCRU acted promptly on credible information about the suspects. Upon arriving at the identified hotel within Ifa Atai, the authorities found Owoidem and another unidentified individual allegedly engaging in activities related to drug use.
Ifiok Owoidem, 26, is a resident of Okon Ikot Essien Village in the Essien Udim Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State. While Owoidem was arrested, law enforcement officials are still searching for another suspect who remains at large.
The police indicated that efforts are ongoing to locate the fugitive. Commissioner of Police Baba Mohammed Azare has emphasized the command’s commitment to combating crime through intelligence-driven strategies, proactive measures, and enhanced collaboration with community members.
