By Emmanuel Ntekim
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrest a suspected drug dealer and the recover large quantities of substances suspected to be Indian hemp.
The command on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, at about 9:30 a.m., acting on credible intelligence, received information that a suspected drug trafficker was conveying bags of illicit substances from Atabong Park en route to Esit Eket.
Following the intelligence, the Command immediately mobilized a crack surveillance and stop-and-search team. During the operation, one Asuquo Etim, male, 63, of Etebi Village in Esit Eket Local Government Area, was intercepted and arrested.
A thorough search conducted on the suspect led to the recovery of two large bags containing substances strongly suspected to be Indian hemp.
Preliminary investigations 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.
In a release signed by the command’s PPRO, DSP Timfon John, the Command has commenced discreet investigations into the matter with a view to uncovering the full network behind the illicit drug supply chain and arresting other accomplices connected to the crime.
The Commissioner of Police, Akwa Ibom State Command, Baba Mohammed Azare, reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to intelligence-led policing and aggressive crackdowns on criminal elements threatening the peace and security of the state.
The CP further warned individuals involved in drug trafficking and other criminal activities 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 also 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.
