The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has successfully dismantled a notorious fraud syndicate operating in Uyo and surrounding areas, rescuing an 81-year-old pensioner during a well-coordinated operation.
The operation highlights the police’s ongoing commitment to safeguarding lives and property while targeting organised crime in the state.
DSP Timfon John, the Public Relations Officer of the command, disclosed the breakthrough in a statement released on Wednesday, February 4, 2026.
According to him, police operatives acted on credible intelligence provided by a vigilant and public-spirited individual.
The intelligence pointed to a group of fraudsters locally referred to as “Utotoh,” who allegedly specialised in deceiving unsuspecting members of the public.
“The Akwa Ibom State Police Command wishes to inform the public that on Monday, February 3, 2026, at about 3:30 p.m., operatives of the Command successfully dismantled a suspected fraud syndicate operating within Uyo metropolis and its environs,” DSP John said.
“The intelligence, provided by a concerned citizen, revealed the activities of a group of fraudsters who reportedly used deceptive and diabolical means to dispossess victims of money and valuables.”
According to the police, the suspects employed an operational tricycle to transport their victims.
They would lure unsuspecting individuals, often elderly or vulnerable, and then execute their criminal schemes using various fraudulent tactics.
The methodical nature of their operations had reportedly enabled the syndicate to defraud multiple victims across Uyo and neighboring communities over time.
During the operation, three male suspects were arrested. They have been identified as Otoabasi Ekpeyong, 51; Ubong Sylvanus, 42; and Sunday Akpan, 60.
The police also rescued an elderly victim, an 81-year-old man named Friday, who was reportedly held by the suspects at the time of the raid.
Fortunately, the pensioner was rescued unharmed, a development that underscores the efficiency and preparedness of the police team.
Recovered from the suspects was the operational tricycle used in the commission of their crimes.
The tricycle bore the registration number UFG-886-QA but was found without a motor number, further indicating the fraudulent intent of the syndicate.
Additionally, investigations revealed that the suspects had previously obtained money and other valuables from multiple individuals in the region.
The suspects reportedly admitted to these activities during questioning.
DSP John emphasised that the arrest of these three individuals marks a significant step in the police’s efforts to curb organised fraud within the state.
“The suspects confessed to the crimes and admitted to defrauding several individuals across Uyo and surrounding areas.
“Investigations are ongoing to identify other victims, obtain statements, and ensure that all members of this fraud syndicate are brought to justice,” he stated.
The police command urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities.
Residents were reminded that timely information could be crucial in preventing further crimes and rescuing victims before any harm occurs.
“The Command continues to encourage residents to provide credible intelligence that will aid in the apprehension of criminals and the protection of the public,” DSP John added.
The recent operation has drawn attention to the methods used by fraud syndicates in the state.
By exploiting the vulnerabilities of elderly and unsuspecting individuals, such groups pose a serious threat to public safety.
The police noted that the operational tricycle used by the syndicate is a common tool for luring victims in urban areas.
Authorities are now exploring further strategies to monitor suspicious transport vehicles and prevent such crimes in the future.
Law enforcement experts have praised the operation, noting that dismantling a fraud syndicate requires a combination of timely intelligence, coordination, and swift police action.
This successful raid in Uyo is expected to serve as a warning to other criminal networks operating in Akwa Ibom and beyond.
It also highlights the importance of community collaboration in the fight against organised crime.
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