May 21, (THEWILL) — The Akwa Ibom State Police Command said it has arrested a 63-year-old suspected drug dealer and recovered two large bags of substances believed to be Indian hemp, in what is described as an intelligence-led operation targeting illicit drug trafficking in the state.
The suspect, identified as Asuquo Etim, an indigene of Etebi Village in Esit Eket Local Government Area, was arrested on Wednesday during a police surveillance and stop-and-search operation following credible intelligence.
According to the Command’s spokesperson, DSP Timfon John, operatives received information that the suspect was transporting bags of illicit substances from Atabong Park to Esit Eket when officers swiftly mobilised and intercepted him at about 9:30 a.m.
Police said a search conducted on the suspect led to the recovery of two large bags containing substances strongly suspected to be cannabis.
The Command further disclosed that preliminary investigations revealed the consignment was allegedly handed over to the suspect by a serving soldier for onward delivery and sale at Ibaka in Mbo Local Government Area.
It said discreet investigations had commenced to unravel the wider drug supply network and arrest other accomplices linked to the operation.
Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, reaffirmed the Command’s resolve to sustain intelligence-driven policing and intensify the crackdown on criminal activities across the state.
He warned individuals involved in drug trafficking and related crimes to desist or face the full weight of the law, stressing that Akwa Ibom would remain hostile to criminal elements and their collaborators.
The police also urged residents to continue providing timely and credible information to support ongoing efforts aimed at combating crime in the state.
