Law enforcement officials in Akwa Ibom State have dismantled a dangerous robbery ring that had been instilling fear across Uyo and its surrounding areas. This gang was notorious for utilizing Keke NAPEP tricycles as their preferred mode of transport to execute their criminal acts.
During a press conference on Friday, October 17, 2025, held at the Command Headquarters in Ikot Akpan Abia, Police Commissioner Baba Mohammed Azare disclosed that the police seized three tricycles and recovered 72 mobile phones, believed to be stolen from residents in the locality.
The breakthrough came after a distress call from Mr. Aniekan Dan, aged 41, who recounted a harrowing incident on July 3, 2025. While journeying from Ibesikpo to Uyo with his spouse, they were accosted at gunpoint by the tricycle-riding criminals. The assailants made away with three high-end smartphones-a Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra, a Google Pixel 7 Pro, and an iPhone 14 Pro Max-along with cash and other valuables.
Commissioner Azare highlighted that the couple’s prompt recollection of the tricycle’s registration number (MOT-0BMR) was instrumental in guiding the police to the culprits. Acting on this lead, officers apprehended the tricycle operator, Editi, 34, whose confession paved the way for the arrest of four additional suspects: Musa Idris Sanni (31), Utibe Asuquo Nkop (34), Dadati John (46), and Abdulrashid Sanni (28).
“Our administration is unwavering in its commitment to ensuring that the citizens of Akwa Ibom can live free from intimidation,” affirmed CP Azare.
He urged those affected by thefts involving tricycles to visit the Uyo Area Command with valid proof of ownership to recover their stolen possessions. The suspects will face prosecution once investigations conclude.
In a related event on October 13, 2025, police intercepted another tricycle bearing registration number 298 WZ along Nasarawa Road. The vehicle was transporting five men and was loaded with an assortment of brand-new household electronics, including five industrial fans, two microwave ovens, 50 voltage stabilizers, four electric irons, two Startimes decoders, three electric kettles, and a DVD player.
The five individuals detained in connection with this haul are Muhammed Saifuana (32), Musa Abdulahi (27), Samaila Sauwanu (21), Mubansir Abubakar (20), and Adamu Umar (25). Investigations are ongoing to determine the origin and rightful ownership of the recovered items.
CP Azare reiterated the Command’s strict stance against criminal activities, warning that offenders will find no refuge within Akwa Ibom State.
“These arrests underscore the vital importance of community alertness combined with prompt police intervention. We remain dedicated to safeguarding lives and property and encourage the public to maintain close cooperation with law enforcement,” he concluded.
