Police Arrest 54 Crime Suspects During Raids, Recover Hemps Worth N10m in Anambra

By Praise Chinecherem

Police in Anambra state have arrested 54 suspects in Ogidi, Idemili North Local government area in the state.

The suspects, comprising 39 males and 15 females were nabbed during raid of black spot following credible intelligence.

Addressing newsmen on Monday, spokesperson, Tochukwu Ikenga said the suspects are currently undergoing screening and profiling, after which those found culpable will be charged.

He said the Command also arrested a 25-year old man, Chiderah Obochi at Ifitedunu with some quantities of dried leaves suspected to be Indian hemp.

He said the suspect was arrested by Operatives of Special Anti-Cult Squad (SPACS), Enugwu-Ukwu along Old Onitsha/Awka road while on aggressive manhunt/patrol for cultists

“Upon interrogation, he confessed to being a drug runner in Umudioka Village, Dunukofia LGA.

“He thereafter led the team to the house of the one Ginika Okeke in Umudioka Village, but the suspect was not met at home.

“However, 11 bags containing a very large quantity of dried leaves suspected to be Cannabis Sativa (Indian Hemp) worth N10million were recovered from the house.

“The recovered hard substances will be handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further necessary action.

The Command is also working on credible intelligence to identify and apprehend drug dealers supplying these harmful substances.

Describing these acts as condemnable and unacceptable, Ikenga attributed the trend partly to declining levels of parental supervision and poor guidance over their children and wards.

“Meanwhile, Operatives of the Command have intensified surveillance, patrols, and intelligence-gathering operations aimed at nipping such incidents in the bud.

“In addition, the Command has strategized further by adopting both kinetic and non-kinetic approaches.

“These include inviting individuals suspected to be associated with cult groups for questioning, as well as conducting targeted raids on drug hideouts.

“The abuse of hard drugs remains a major driving force that emboldens youths to commit heinous crimes.

“On behalf of the Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, the Command hereby reassures Ndi Anambra of her unwavering commitment to restoring sanity, protecting lives and property, and ensuring that the State remains safe for all law-abiding residents,” he added.