The Cross River State Police Command has dismantled a suspected burglary and theft syndicate operating within Calabar metropolis, arresting four suspects and recovering a large quantity of stolen household and electronic items in a major crime-fighting operation.
The Command disclosed that the breakthrough followed intelligence-led operations carried out by operatives of the Uwanse Division on June 4, 2026. According to the police, the operation led to the arrest of 27-year-old Effiong Ene, a suspect who had previously escaped from lawful custody. His arrest subsequently opened up fresh leads that enabled investigators to track down and apprehend other alleged members of the syndicate.
The additional suspects arrested were identified as Hope Linus, 18, Patrick Etim, 26, and Maurice Asuquo, 27. Police said preliminary investigations linked the suspects to a series of burglary and stealing incidents across parts of the Calabar metropolis.
Following the arrests, detectives conducted coordinated searches at various locations connected to the suspects. The operation resulted in the recovery of an extensive collection of suspected stolen property, including several plasma television sets, laptops, decoders, DVD players, MP3 players, a tablet, projector, microwave oven, refrigerator, standing fans, solar modulators, gas cylinders, stabilizers, POS machines, household appliances, clothing items, furniture and other valuables.
Investigators also recovered burglary tools allegedly used by the syndicate during operations. These included an iron bar, hammer, pliers, spanner, scissors, a knife, damaged padlocks, master keys and a carton of nails.
Police authorities said the recovered exhibits suggest the group may have been involved in multiple burglary operations over an extended period. Efforts are currently underway to identify additional members of the gang who remain at large and to trace the rightful owners of the recovered property.
The suspects have been transferred to the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) for further investigation, while detectives continue to gather evidence and establish the full scope of the syndicate’s activities.
Commending the officers involved in the operation, Cross River State Commissioner of Police, Rashid Afegbua, praised their professionalism, resilience and dedication to duty.
