Police dismantle drug distribution hubs in Akwa Ibom, arrest 18 suspects

The Akwa Ibom State Police Command says it has dismantled illegal drug distribution enclaves in Itu Local Government Area, arresting 18 suspects in the process.

The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, disclosed this in a statement on Monday in Uyo.

According to John, operatives of the command on Sunday stormed the drug syndicate’s hideouts in Oku Iboko and Mbak communities.

“These locations are active drug distribution hubs; they are also fueling criminal activities in the area,” she said.

The police image maker stated that a significant quantity of suspected illicit substances was recovered during the operation.

“Preliminary findings reveal that the hideouts were being used as distribution points for narcotics, a substance that is contributing to youth delinquency, violent crimes, and other social vices.

“Investigations are ongoing to uncover the full extent of the network and apprehend additional collaborators,” John said.

She urged those engaged in drug trafficking and related criminal enterprises to desist from such unlawful activities or face the full wrath of the law.

John reaffirmed the command’s commitment to effectively tackle criminality in the state, stating, “We shall continue to intensify intelligence-driven raids across the state to dismantle criminal hideouts.”

The police spokesman appealed to community leaders and residents to provide the police with credible, actionable intelligence.

“Those who choose to undermine the peace and safety of Akwa Ibom should be prepared for swift and decisive action,” she said.