The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has rescued an 81-year-old man from the clutches of a suspected fraud syndicate operating within Uyo, the state capital.
The command also arrested three alleged members of the syndicate during an operation carried out on Tuesday, following intelligence received from a concerned resident.
The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, disclosed this in a statement issued to journalists in Uyo on Wednesday.
According to the police, the suspects specialised in using a tricycle to lure unsuspecting members of the public before defrauding them of their money and valuables.
John explained that the operation was triggered by credible information indicating that the syndicate had been targeting vulnerable victims across Uyo and neighbouring areas.
She said operatives swiftly mobilised and apprehended three suspects at about 3:30 p.m. on February 3, successfully dismantling the group’s activities.
The police spokesperson added that the tricycle allegedly used by the suspects for their operations, with registration number UFG-886-QA, was recovered during the arrest.
She disclosed that preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects had fraudulently obtained money and personal belongings from several victims.
John noted that the suspects had made useful statements, while investigations were ongoing to identify other victims and track down additional members of the syndicate.
The command urged residents to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities to security agencies.