11TH AUGUST, 2025
AKWA IBOM STATE POLICE COMMAND
PRESS RELEASE
POLICE NEUTRALIZE SUSPECTED NOTORIOUS ARMED ROBBERY GANG LEADER
On August 9, 2025, at approximately 11:00pm, Operatives of the Command successfully neutralized a suspected notorious armed robbery gang leader, Imoh Gavin Akpan, ‘m’, from Ikot Uboh village. Akpan, who had been a key figure in numerous armed robberies and acts of terror in Ikot Ekpene and its surrounding areas, was shot during an exchange of gunfire with police.
The operation began when Akpan, who was in police custody, led the team to a hideout in Mbiaso village that served as the gang’s armory. Upon arrival, the police were met with gunfire from other gang members. During the ensuing shootout, Akpan attempted to escape and was hit by a bullet. He was immediately rushed to the Hospital for treatment but was pronounced dead on arrival by a medical doctor. His body has been deposited at the hospital’s mortuary for an autopsy.
From the scene, Operatives recovered a locally made shotgun, two expended cartridges, and one live cartridge.
An investigation is ongoing, and efforts are being intensified to apprehend the remaining members of the fleeing gang.
Signed:
DSP Timfon John, LLB, Anipr
Police Public Relations Officer
Akwa Ibom State Police Command