Church Used as Criminal Hideout Busted in Akwa Ibom as Police Arrest Seven, Recover Weapons

A covert criminal operation masked as a religious centre has been uncovered in Akwa Ibom State, with police arresting seven suspects and seizing a cache of weapons during an early morning raid.

Authorities say the facility, located in Ndiya Mfia village in Ikono Local Government Area, was operating under the name “All Power Belong to Me, Solomon of our Generation,” raising fresh concerns about the misuse of religious fronts for illegal activities.

The Akwa Ibom State Police Command confirmed that the operation was carried out following credible intelligence suggesting that suspected criminals were hiding within the premises. Officers moved in around 6:00 a.m. on April 8, executing a targeted raid that led to multiple arrests.

Among those taken into custody are individuals identified as Preacher Brian Ebeka, Kenneth Ezekiel, Dickson Ndueso, Abang Rowland, Esther Elijah Okon, and Joy Elijah Okon. Police say investigations are ongoing to determine the full extent of their activities and possible links to wider criminal networks.

A significant number of items were recovered from the scene, including two locally made double-barrel guns, five expended cartridges, and several weapons such as machetes. Officers also seized four motorcycles, three large generators, multiple mobile phones, and various suspicious items believed to be connected to the operation.

Additional exhibits include a police crest, jungle boots, a special forces vest, and containers of what authorities described as “suspected spiritual oil.” Investigators say these items may have been used to disguise or facilitate criminal operations under the guise of religious practices.

Police spokesperson DSP Timfon John said preliminary findings indicate the location was deliberately used as a cover for unlawful activities, warning that such tactics would not shield offenders from prosecution.

“The Command will not tolerate any attempt to exploit religion or any other cover to perpetrate crime,” the statement said, adding that those involved will face the full weight of the law.

Security agencies have since intensified surveillance across the area, with authorities urging residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements as efforts continue to dismantle criminal networks operating under deceptive fronts.