….Operatives seize suspected Indian hemp, Tramadol, 30 wraps of dried weeds, mobile phones and ₦27,200 in intelligence-led operation
By: Abdullahi Inuwa
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has intensified its offensive against drug trafficking and substance abuse, arresting three suspected drug dealers and recovering suspected illicit substances and other exhibits during a dawn raid on identified criminal black spots in Ikot Abasi Local Government Area.
The operation, which underscores the Command’s renewed determination to dismantle drug distribution networks across the state, was conducted between 3:00am and 6:00am on Thursday, November 12, 2026.
The intelligence-led raid covered Market Square, Access Road, Ete-Okopedi Road and other identified black spots within the local government area.
The three suspects arrested during the operation were identified as Emmanuel Thompson, 21; Isaac Monday, 24; and Victor Etukakpan, 25.
Police operatives reportedly recovered several substances suspected to be illicit drugs, alongside items believed to be connected with drug distribution and other unlawful activities.
Among the exhibits recovered were a manual grinder containing seeds suspected to be Indian hemp, a transparent pack containing suspected hard drugs, 16 pieces of white substances suspected to be hard drugs and two cards of Tramadol capsules containing eight and three capsules respectively.
The operatives also recovered approximately 30 wraps of dried weeds suspected to be Indian hemp, raising further questions about possible drug-related activities in the affected locations.
Other items seized included a sealed white sachet containing an unidentified Chinese product, three Android mobile phones, an itel power bank, a Type-C charging cord, two torchlights, a bottle of oil perfume and a pack of small transparent envelopes suspected to have been used for packaging illicit substances.
The list of recovered exhibits further included two empty 200ml Action Bitters containers, a damaged hand chain, a blue sponge in a blue cup and cash amounting to ₦27,200.
The suspects are currently undergoing screening and profiling, while investigators are working to establish their individual roles in the alleged activities and determine whether they have connections with wider drug distribution networks operating within and beyond the area.
The Police Command is also intensifying investigations to identify other possible hideouts and locations being used as operational bases for illicit drug activities.
The Commissioner of Police, Akwa Ibom State Command, reaffirmed the Command’s determination to dismantle criminal networks, disrupt drug distribution channels and prevent identified black spots from becoming safe havens for criminal elements.
He has consequently directed the strengthening of intelligence gathering, targeted surveillance and sustained raids across the state to deny suspected criminals the opportunity to operate.
The Commissioner also urged residents to support the police with credible and timely information, stressing that public cooperation remains critical to preventing crime and maintaining security.
The latest operation adds to the Command’s ongoing efforts to confront drug-related offences and other criminal activities threatening public safety across Akwa Ibom State.
The Command assured residents of its continued commitment to protecting lives and property, enforcing the law and creating a secure environment for legitimate businesses and daily activities.
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