The police command in Akwa Ibom has arrested six suspected armed robbers and associates of a gang operating in Ikono, Ini and Obot Akara council areas.

The command’s spokesperson, Timfon John, said in a statement that police operatives arrested the suspects earlier on Thursday during raids.

“The operation, which was led by the officer in charge of the tactical team, followed sustained intelligence gathering and operational efforts aimed at dismantling the remaining members and associates of the criminal network responsible for a series of criminal activities, particularly the theft and disposal of motorcycles and other valuable items,” she said.

Ms John disclosed that the suspects were arrested, including a native doctor alleged to have been providing charms and other fetish preparations for members of the gang during the operation.

She said another suspect allegedly specialised in producing fake receipts used to facilitate the disposal and sale of suspected stolen motorcycles and other items.

The suspects are Peter Sabbath, 34; Joseph Udo, 25; Victor Igwe, 23; Boniface  Essiet, 37; Simeon Udo,  47; and Uko Akang.

Items recovered were two shotguns, three laptops, one suspected stolen motorcycle, local charms and other fetish items recovered from the shrine of the suspected native doctor, and other materials relevant to the ongoing investigation.