February 17, (THEWILL) — The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has declared total war on drug traffickers, arresting multiple suspects and recovering significant quantities of suspected Indian hemp and other illicit substances in coordinated raids across the state.
The sweeping operations, carried out in identified criminal flashpoints, were based on actionable intelligence and executed simultaneously in known hideouts.
According to a press statement issued by the Command on Monday, several suspects are currently in custody and will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.
The Commissioner of Police, Baba Mohammed Azare, issued what he described as a final warning to individuals engaged in the unlawful trade of Indian hemp and other banned substances to cease operations immediately.
“Akwa Ibom State is no longer a safe operating ground for drug barons and peddlers”, the Commissioner said, stressing that surveillance mechanisms have been reinforced and intelligence gathering enhanced to dismantle criminal networks.
The Command linked the proliferation of illicit drugs to rising cases of cultism, armed robbery, violent crimes, and social disorder, warning that it would not stand by while young people are drawn into addiction and criminality.
CP Azare directed that the crackdown be sustained without interruption, vowing relentless enforcement, arrest, prosecution, and the full weight of the law for offenders. He also called on parents, traditional rulers, youth leaders, and other stakeholders to provide timely and credible information to support ongoing operations.
In a related development, the Commissioner decorated 613 newly promoted officers who advanced from the rank of Inspector to Assistant Superintendent of Police II (ASP II) during a ceremony at the Command Headquarters in Uyo.
Represented by the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Finance and Administration, DCP Egbe Preye, CP Azare charged the officers to uphold professionalism, discipline, and strict adherence to the rule of law in their new roles.
He described their promotion as recognition of dedication and hard work, reminding them that a higher rank comes with increased responsibility and accountability.
Speaking, ASP George Michael expressed gratitude to the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, and the Police Service Commission for approving their advancement, pledging that they will discharge their duties with integrity and commitment.
The event was attended by members of the Command’s management team, senior officers, and guests.
The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, reaffirmed the Command’s resolve to maintain law, order, and moral integrity across Akwa Ibom State.
