Police Neutralize Kidnap Kingpin, Recover Weapon In Akwa Ibom

The operatives of the Akwa Ibom Police Command have neutralized a notorious kidnapper in the state.

According to reports, the suspect, identified as Ubong Effiong Archibong, who was alleged to be the leader of the Bling Bling Marine Strike Force and was also linked to the kidnap of a High Court Judge, Joy Unwana and the killing of her police orderly, Inspector ThankGod Edet, in 2023 has met gis waterlo.

Confirming the incident, the command’s PRO, Timfon John, in a statement released in Uyo, titled “Notorious kidnap kingpin/sea pirate meets Waterloo,” on Thursday.

Timfon said that the suspect was killed during a gun duel with operatives of the command in his hideout at the Uyanga Community of Cross River State and a G3 rifle with ammunition recovered from him.

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The statement reads,

“The Akwa Ibom State Police Command on Wednesday, August 28, 2024, has neutralised a dreaded kidnap kingpin/ sea pirate whose stock in trade was to kidnap, kill, maim and wreak havoc in society.

“The kingpin, Ubong Effiong Archibong, (M), alias Condiment, a gang leader of the Bling Bling Marine Strike Force terrorising the Uruan/Oron Waterways were responsible for the kidnapping of a High Court Judge, Joy Unwana and the killing of her police orderly, Inspector ThankGod Edet, the gruesome murder of the CEO Emem and Sons Nig. Ltd and kidnapping of his sales rep.

“The suspect was also responsible for the kidnap of Pharmacist Joemel as well as also responsible for the kidnap of Mr. Brown, CEO Mingles Hotel.

“One G3 rifle with four live ammunition was recovered from the suspect. The corpse of the suspect was recovered and deposited at the morgue. Investigations with full intent to arrest other members of the gang are ongoing.”