The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested a suspected armed robber believed to be part of a gang terrorising residents of Uyo metropolis.
The arrest, according to the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, followed a complaint from a female resident who reported that she was robbed after boarding a private vehicle along Uruan Street.
In a statement issued on Friday in Uyo, DSP John said the victim explained that the occupants of the vehicle diverted from their original route shortly after she entered the car. She was allegedly threatened with a gun and forced to reveal her ATM Personal Identification Number.
The suspects were said to have taken the victim to her residence, where they searched the house and carted away ₦900,000 in cash. They also reportedly withdrew an additional ₦3.3 million from her bank account using her ATM card.
DSP John disclosed that police operatives, acting on the report, launched a manhunt for the gang and succeeded in arresting one of the suspects on Tuesday.
Three Point-of-Sale (PoS) machines allegedly used for illegal withdrawals were recovered during the operation.
She added that investigations are ongoing to track down other members of the syndicate.
The police spokesperson urged residents to remain cautious, especially when boarding private vehicles, and to promptly report any suspicious activities in their neighbourhoods to security agencies.