CHUKA UBAH
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has made a remarkable achievement by apprehending a 32-year old native doctor, Effiong Asuquo, who allegedly prepares ‘bulletproof’ charms and Police protection charms for armed robbers in the State.
P.M.EXPRESS reports that the Police arrested the suspect, Asuquo, on 6th August, 2025, in Ikot Ekpene, following a series of painstaking intelligence-led operations targeting criminal networks in the region.
This was disclosed by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Timfon John, who confirmed the arrest of the suspect now in custody undergoing interrogation over his alleged conduct.
ASP John explained that the suspect was nabbed after a tip-off from a concerned citizen and Police acted swiftly, raiding Asuquo’s hideout in a remote area of Ikot Ekpene, where they recovered several items, including charms, amulets, and concoctions believed to be used in rituals to supposedly render robbers impervious to bullets.
He stated that other items recovered included animal skulls, herbal mixtures, and a small shrine allegedly used for the rituals for successful armed robbery operations.
“Preliminary investigations revealed that Asuquo, a native of Ikot Abasi, had been operating as a self-proclaimed traditionalist, catering to criminal elements across Akwa Ibom and neighbouring states.”
“The suspect confessed to preparing charms for robbers, claiming his concoctions could protect them from law enforcement,” ASP John disclosed.
The spokesperson added that the Police are working to identify and apprehend the robbers linked to Asuquo’s operations.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Waheed Ayilara, commended the operatives for their diligence and reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to rooting out crime in Akwa Ibom.
“We will not relent in our efforts to dismantle criminal networks and ensure the safety of residents,” Ayilara stated. He urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to the authorities.”
“This arrest comes amid growing concerns over the resurgence of ritualistic practices tied to criminal activities in the state. Community leaders have called for increased awareness and collaboration between residents and security agencies to curb such practices. The suspect is expected to face charges of conspiracy and illegal possession of prohibited items, with further investigations ongoing to uncover the full extent of his operations.”
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