Police in Akwa Ibom State have arrested a suspected drug dealer as well as recovered large quantities of substances suspected to be Indian hemp in Esit Eket LGA.
The latest breakthrough comes on the heels of its sustained war against illicit drug trafficking and other criminal activities across the State.
DSP Timfon John, the State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), announced this in a press release circulated to media houses in Uyo on Thursday, May 21, 2026.
According to DSP John, “On Wednesday, May 20, 2026, at about 0930hrs, Operatives of the Command, acting on credible intelligence, received information that a suspected drug trafficker was conveying bags of illicit substances from Atabong Park en route Esit Eket.
“Following the intelligence, the Command immediately mobilized a crack surveillance and stop-and-search team, where one Asuquo Etim, male, aged 63 years, of Etebi Village in Esit Eket Local Government Area, was intercepted and arrested.
Related: Raid On Criminal Hideout: Police Nab Suspected Drug Dealer In Akwa Ibom
She said a thorough search conducted on the suspect led to the recovery of two large bags containing substances suspected to be Indian hemp.
The PPRO stated that preliminary investigation further revealed that the recovered exhibits were allegedly handed over to the suspect by a serving soldier for onward delivery and sale at Ibaka in Mbo Local Government Area.
“The Command has commenced discreet investigations into the matter with a view to uncovering the full network behind the illicit drug supply chain and arrest all other accomplices connected to the crime,” she added.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police, Akwa Ibom State Command, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, fsi, has reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to intelligence-led policing and aggressive crackdown on criminal elements threatening the peace and security of the State.
CP also warned individuals involved in drug trafficking and other criminal enterprises to desist or be prepared to face the full weight of the law, stressing that Akwa Ibom State will remain hostile to criminals and their collaborators.
The Command further urged members of the public to continue supporting the Police with timely and credible information capable of aiding ongoing operations against criminality in the State.
