Police dismantle suspected “White Cap” burglary ring, seize firearm and stolen goods in Cross River.

Cross River State Police Command announced significant progress in its anti‑crime campaign after arresting suspected members of a burglary syndicate in Calabar and seizing a locally manufactured firearm from a suspect in Ikom Local Government Area.

Four individuals—Effiong Ene (27), Hope Linus (18), Patrick Etim (26) and Maurice Asuquo (27)—were taken into custody by the Uwanse Division following an intelligence‑driven operation. The raid, launched on June 4 after credible intelligence and sustained surveillance, targeted a gang believed to have carried out a series of break‑ins across Calabar.

Investigators say the arrested suspects led officers to the hideouts of other gang members, where a large cache of suspected stolen property was recovered. The collection included plasma televisions, laptops, decoders, household appliances, refrigerators, gas cylinders, solar equipment, POS machines, clothing items and tools allegedly used in burglary operations.

Police have linked the suspects to a group popularly known as the “White Cap Gang,” which has been associated with house break‑ins in Calabar South and surrounding communities. Authorities continue to investigate the full scope of the group’s activities and are searching for additional members who may have fled.

The recovered items, displayed on several exhibit racks, are believed to have been stolen from homes and businesses throughout the metropolis. Police are working to identify the rightful owners and return the property.

In a separate operation on the same day, the Ikom Division arrested Asu Ebolom (36) during a routine patrol and surveillance exercise near Atimaka Trailer Park. A search of the suspect yielded a locally manufactured pistol that he was carrying. Ebolom was taken into custody while investigators determine the firearm’s origin and any possible links to criminal activity.

Cross River State Police Commissioner CP Rashid B. Afegbua praised the professionalism, resilience and dedication of the officers involved. He reiterated the Command’s commitment to intelligence‑led policing and the protection of lives and property across the state.

Police Public Relations Officer ASP Eitokpah Sunday Akata said investigations have intensified to trace additional suspects and dismantle any criminal networks connected to the cases. He urged residents to remain vigilant and continue providing credible information to aid security agencies in combating crime.