Operatives of the Akwa Ibom State Police Command have dismantled a criminal syndicate allegedly involved in robbery, rape and kidnapping within Uyo metropolis and its surrounding communities.
The gang reportedly operated under the guise of commercial tricycle operators, using the notorious “one chance” scheme to lure unsuspecting passengers.
Victims were said to be hypnotised with charms and taken to secluded locations, where they were dispossessed of their money and other valuables.
Briefing journalists at the Command headquarters in Ikot Akpanabia, Uyo, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, said the breakthrough followed credible intelligence provided by a concerned member of the public.
According to her, the suspects, locally known as “Utotoh,” used an operational tricycle to deceive and convey victims before employing what she described as “deceptive and diabolical means” to rob them.
DSP John disclosed that acting on the tip-off, police operatives swiftly arrested three suspected ringleaders of the syndicate. They were identified as Otoabasi Ekpeyong, 51; Ubong Sylvanus, 42; and Sunday Akpan, 60.
She added that an 81-year-old pensioner, simply identified as Friday, was rescued unhurt during the operation.
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Also recovered was the syndicate’s operational tricycle with registration number UFG-886-QA, which was found without a motor number.
The police spokesperson said the suspects confessed to the crime, admitting to defrauding several victims across Uyo and its environs.
Investigations are ongoing, while the Command has assured residents of its commitment to ridding the state of criminal elements and ensuring public safety.
