18 nabbed as police dismantle drug enclaves in Akwa Ibom

The Police Command in Akwa Ibom said on Monday that it has dismantled illegal drug distribution enclaves in Itu Local Government Area of the state.

The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO),  Timfon John who disclosed this in a statement in Uyo, said that 18 suspects were apprehended in the process.

John said that operatives of the command on Sunday stormed the drug syndicates hideout 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 said that during the operation, a significant quantity of suspected illicit substances were recovered.

“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, saying, ” we shall continue to intensify intelligence-driven raids across the state to dismantle criminal hideouts”

The police spokesman urged community leaders and other residents to support the police with credible and actionable intelligence.

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

(NAN)