The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has made a major breakthrough in its efforts to combat kidnapping and sea piracy with the elimination of a notorious kidnap kingpin, Ubong Achibong, also known as "Condiment."
Achibong, who was behind several high-profile abductions and murders in the state, was killed in a gunfight with operatives at his hideout in Uyanga Community, Cross River State.
According to police spokesperson, Timfon John, Achibong led the "Bling Bling Marine Strike Force," a gang that terrorised the Uruan/Oron Waterways, an area that had seen a spike in kidnappings.
Among his crimes was the kidnapping of Justice Joy Unwana, a High Court judge, last December, during which her police guard, ThankGod Edet, was killed.
Justice Unwana was released after five days in captivity.
Achibong's reign of terror also claimed the life of Sylvanus Ukpong, the elder brother of Cletus Ukpong, the PREMIUM TIMES editor for South-south/South-east region.
Sylvanus, a former CEO of Emem & Sons Ltd and Emem Farm Ltd, was shot dead on April 6 along Oron Road by gunmen who attempted to abduct him.
Furthermore, Achibong was linked to the kidnap of Pharmacist Joemel and Mr. Brown, the CEO of Mingles Hotel.
The police recovered one G3 rifle with four live ammunition from the suspect, and his corpse was deposited at the morgue Premium Times reports.
The neutralization of Achibong is a significant achievement for the Akwa Ibom State Police Command, and it is expected to bring relief to the communities that were terrorized by his gang.
The police have demonstrated their commitment to tackling the surge in abductions and murders in the state, and this operation is a testament to their efforts.
Governor Umo Eno had recently requested a new army battalion for the area due to the surging abductions experienced there.
The police operation that led to Achibong's death is a response to the governor's call for action.
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has assured the public that it will continue working tirelessly to ensure the state is safe and secure.
The command has also urged the public to provide information that will help arrest and prosecute other criminals in the state.
The neutralization of Ubong Achibong is a major victory for the police and a significant blow to the kidnapping and sea piracy syndicates operating in the state.
It is hoped that this will serve as a deterrent to other criminals and help to reduce the incidence of kidnapping and murder in the state.
