By Gabriel Ameh
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested three suspected drug traffickers and recovered substances suspected to be illicit drugs, Tramadol capsules and other items during an intelligence-led operation in Ikot Abasi Local Government Area.
The operation, which took place between 3:00 a.m. and 6:00 a.m. on November 12, 2026, covered Market Square, Access Road, Ete-Okopedi Road and other identified criminal hideouts within the area.
The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, disclosed this in a statement, explaining that the operation was carried out in line with the directives of the Commissioner of Police.
The arrested suspects were identified as Emmanuel Thompson, 21; Isaac Monday, 24; and Victor Etukakpan, 25.
According to the police, a search conducted during the operation led to the recovery of several items suspected to be connected to drug trafficking and other unlawful activities.
The recovered exhibits include a manual grinder containing seeds suspected to be Indian hemp, a transparent pack containing substances suspected to be hard drugs, 16 pieces of white substances suspected to be illicit drugs, two cards of Tramadol capsules containing eight and three capsules respectively, and approximately 30 wraps of dried weeds suspected to be Indian hemp.
Other items recovered include a sealed sachet containing an unidentified Chinese product, three Android mobile phones, an itel power bank, a Type-C charging cord, two torchlights, oil perfume, two empty containers of Action Bitters, and a pack of small transparent envelopes suspected to have been used for packaging illicit substances.
Police also recovered a damaged hand chain, a blue sponge in a blue cup and the sum of ₦27,200.
The Command said the suspects were undergoing screening and profiling, while investigations were being intensified to establish their individual roles and possible connections to wider drug distribution networks.
Investigators are also working to identify other locations allegedly being used as hideouts or operational bases for illicit drug activities.
The Commissioner of Police reiterated the Command’s commitment to dismantling criminal networks, disrupting drug distribution channels and preventing criminal elements from operating in identified black spots across the state.
He also directed officers to strengthen intelligence gathering, targeted surveillance and sustained raids as part of efforts to improve security.
The police called on residents to provide credible and timely information that could assist in preventing and detecting criminal activities.
The Command reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property and ensuring a safe environment for residents across Akwa Ibom State.
Source: Akwa Ibom State Police Command.
