Cross River police dismantle burglary syndicate, recover large cache of stolen property

Crime Diary

CALABAR, Nigeria (NPA) — The Cross River State Police Command has dismantled a suspected burglary and theft syndicate operating within the Calabar metropolis, leading to the arrest of four suspects and the recovery of a large quantity of stolen property.

The suspects were identified as Effiong Ene, 27; Hope Linus, 18; Patrick Etim, 26; and Maurice Asuquo, 27.

According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eitokpah Sunday Akata, operatives of the Uwanse Division carried out the operation on June 4, 2026, following credible intelligence and sustained surveillance.

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Police said one of the suspects, Effiong Ene, who had earlier escaped from lawful custody, was re-arrested during the operation.

Investigators said the suspect subsequently led officers to the hideouts of other members of the alleged criminal network, resulting in additional arrests and the recovery of numerous items believed to have been stolen from residents.

Recovered exhibits include several plasma televisions, laptops, decoders, mobile electronic devices, home appliances, solar equipment, gas cylinders, standing fans, stabilisers, clothing items and other household property.

Police also recovered burglary tools, including iron bars, hammers, pliers, spanners, scissors, a knife, damaged padlocks, master keys, and cartons of nails allegedly used in carrying out criminal operations.

Other items recovered include Point-of-Sale (POS) machines, electronic accessories and various valuables suspected to have been stolen from multiple locations within the state capital.

The suspects are currently being held at the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) while investigations continue.

The police said efforts have been intensified to apprehend other fleeing members of the syndicate and identify the rightful owners of the recovered property.

Reacting to the operation, the Commissioner of Police in Cross River State, Rashid Afegbua, commended the officers involved for their professionalism, resilience and dedication to duty. He reaffirmed the command’s commitment to combating crime and protecting lives and property across the state.

The police commissioner also urged residents to remain vigilant and continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies to support ongoing efforts against criminal activities.