In a startling revelation, Akwa Ibom State Police Commissioner, Waheed Ayilara, unveiled a series of criminal activities uncovered by law enforcement during a recent press conference in Uyo. Among the 52 individuals apprehended for various offenses, including murder, armed robbery, child trafficking, cultism, and fraud, was a woman who ingeniously orchestrated her own kidnapping. Hailing from Nung Oku Village in Ibesikpo Asutan Local Government Area, she demanded a ransom of N4 million before being thwarted by police intervention.
Detailing the elaborate scheme, Ayilara recounted how a report from Enobong Sampson alleging her sister’s abduction spurred the anti-kidnapping squad into action. Swiftly, they tracked down the purported victim and her accomplices, including her boyfriend, at a hideout in Mbierebe Obio. Confronted by the evidence, she confessed to colluding with her partner and three others to stage her abduction, intending to extort funds from her aunt residing abroad.
The commissioner also shed light on other heinous crimes unearthed during the operation. One such case involved a man from Uruting village in Okobo Local Government Area who brutally murdered his own father over a land dispute, while another individual was apprehended in Ayam village for his involvement in producing counterfeit fruit drinks and other fake goods. Furthermore, a scam artist exploiting Point of Sale (POS) machines to defraud unsuspecting citizens was also brought to justice.
Ayilara reassured the public that thorough investigations were underway, with a promise to swiftly arraign all suspects. He underscored the police force’s dedication to collaborating with stakeholders to tackle security challenges and maintain peace in Akwa Ibom State.