By Ogenyi Ogenyi,Uyo
The Police in Akwa Ibom has successfully rescued 20 Ghanians trafficked to Uyo, the capital of Akwa Ibom State, following a request from the Ghana Police Service and INTERPOL.
A statement from the State Police Public Relations Officer, Timfon John made available to newsmen on Wednesday in Uyo said the human trafficking victims were rescued from a compound in Obio Etoi part of the capital after a collaborative operation.
The victims made up of 10 males and 10 females according to the statement are suspected to have been hypotonized as they appeared disoriented and unable to provide useful information.
“Acting on credible information, Operatives, surrounded a well-fenced building at approximately 1617 hours on Monday, August 18, 2025. The raid led to the rescue of 10 males and 10 females (names withheld), all confirmed to be Ghanaian nationals.
“The victims presently appear disoriented and have been unable to provide useful information, leading investigators to suspect they may have been hypnotized.
“Investigation is ongoing, and further developments will be communicated to the public as they become available.
In another development, the Police also arrested a three-man armed robbery syndicate believed to be responsible for a series of early morning armed robberies within the Uyo metropolitan area following an intelligence-led operation.
A Police statement said that following several complaints and discreet investigations, Operatives of the State Command successfully arrested one Ubong Michael Patrick, a 27-year-old male who during interrogation confessed to the crime and led the police to arrest two other members of the gang.
“One Ibrahim Kanu, 20yrs, a native of Gorore community in Adamawa State, and Nazipi Dahiru, 25yrs, a native of Gombe State. Both men are residents of ‘Nassarawa’, a community in Itam, Itu LGA.
“Preliminary findings indicate that the stolen phones were packaged and transported to Kano State for sale to unsuspecting buyers. Efforts are currently underway to recover the stolen items.
“The Akwa Ibom State Police Command reassures citizens of its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all residents and urges the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station.” It said.
