Reported by Afilawos Magana Sur, investigative Journalist at Sele Media Africa.
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has dismantled an alleged illegal drug distribution hub in Itu Local Government Area (LGA), arresting 18 suspects and recovering what authorities described as a significant quantity of illicit substances. According to police officials, the coordinated operation targeted multiple locations believed to serve as supply and redistribution points for narcotics within the LGA and surrounding communities. The raid forms part of ongoing efforts to disrupt drug trafficking networks and address rising concerns over substance abuse in parts of southern Nigeria. Coordinated operation in Itu security sources confirmed that officers executed the operation following actionable intelligence on suspected drug activity in the area. Several premises were searched during the raid, leading to the arrest of 18 individuals alleged to be directly connected to the distribution network.Authorities said exhibits recovered at the scene include various quantities of suspected hard drugs and related paraphernalia. The police have indicated that forensic analysis and profiling are underway as part of efforts to strengthen prosecution. The Commissioner of Police in Akwa Ibom State reiterated the Command’s commitment to intensifying surveillance and intelligence-driven operations aimed at curbing the circulation of narcotics. He also called on community leaders and residents to support law enforcement agencies with credible information. Broader anti-drug efforts in Nigeria the development aligns with nationwide anti-narcotics operations led by the Nigeria Police Force in collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency. In recent years, the NDLEA has reported increased seizures of cannabis, synthetic drugs, opioids, and other controlled substances across multiple states, reflecting both heightened enforcement and persistent trafficking challenges.Public health experts warn that the proliferation of illicit drugs—particularly among young people—poses long-term social and economic risks. Civil society organizations have repeatedly called for a multi-layered response that combines enforcement with rehabilitation, awareness campaigns, and economic empowerment initiatives. Community impact and legal process residents in Itu LGA have expressed concern over the alleged use of residential buildings as distribution points, citing fears about youth exposure to drugs and related criminality. Police authorities have assured the public that investigations will be thorough and that all suspects will be charged to court upon the conclusion of preliminary inquiries. Under Nigerian law, drug trafficking and unlawful possession of controlled substances carry severe penalties, including lengthy prison terms upon conviction. The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has urged continued vigilance, emphasizing that sustained collaboration between communities and security agencies remains critical in dismantling entrenched drug networks. Sources coverage of similar anti-drug enforcement operations in Akwa Ibom and other Nigerian states has been reported by: Punch Newspapers; Premium Times; Vanguard; The Guardian.
Afilawos Magana Sur is a journalist from Bogoro Local Government Area of Bauchi State, currently based in Bauchi metropolis. He is known for his commitment to accurate, ethical, and responsible journalism, with a focus on reporting issues of public relevance and community development.
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