The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has declared the Village Head of Ine Eyoabasi Fishing Village, Kingdom Bane, wanted over his alleged role in a militant and piracy syndicate terrorizing the state’s coastal communities.
Commissioner of Police, Baba Azare, made this known on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, during a press briefing at the state police headquarters in Uyo, where he outlined recent major security breakthroughs achieved by the command.
Azare said the operation, which was carried out in collaboration with Marine Hunters on November 3, 2025, led to the arrest of Samuel Geofrey, a suspected militant from Bayelsa State.
During interrogation, Geofrey reportedly confessed that his rifle was being kept by Kingdom Bane, the village head of Ine Eyoabasi.
“Upon sighting our operatives, the village head took to his heels,” the commissioner said.
“A subsequent search of his residence, however, led to the recovery of several items suspected to have been stolen from sea travelers.”
Recovered exhibits included multiple marine engines (40HP, 15HP, and 8HP), power heads, gearboxes, generators, a deep freezer, toilet fittings, a sewing machine, and several household items.
Officers also found a bag containing personal belongings and identification documents of one Chibuike Vincent Awah from Onitsha in Anambra State.
While Geofrey remains in custody, Azare assured that efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing village head, warning that no individual, regardless of social status, will be shielded from justice.
“This operation underscores our determination to dismantle criminal networks operating from the creeks of Mbo to the heart of Uyo. We will pursue every suspect until they face the law,” he declared.
The police commissioner also announced other recent security successes, including the dismantling of an illegal gun manufacturing factory at Ekiti Itam Village in Itu Local Government Area, with two suspects arrested and locally fabricated firearms recovered.
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He mentioned the arrest of phone and tricycle thieves in possession of over 70 stolen phones and three tricycles, the capture of cult leaders engaged in unlawful masquerade processions, highway blockages, and extortion.
Other successes recorded are the neutralization of armed robbery syndicates and motorcycle snatchers operating between Akwa Ibom and Rivers States, as well as the recovery of ammunition and cartridges following tip-offs from vigilant residents.
Azare commended officers for their professionalism and praised citizens for their cooperation with the police.
He encouraged victims of theft, particularly those who lost phones or other valuables, to visit the command for possible identification and recovery.
“We remain committed to making Akwa Ibom one of the safest states in Nigeria,” Azare assured.
“There will be no hiding place for criminals in our state.”
