Police arrest 23 suspects, seize illicit drugs in Akwa Ibom

The Akwa Ibom State Police Command says it has dealt a major blow to drug trafficking and organised crime in the coastal community of Ibaka, following a coordinated night raid that led to the arrest of 23 suspects and the recovery of large quantities of illicit drugs and other criminal materials.

The operation, carried out between 9:40 p.m. on Wednesday, February 5, and 12:15 a.m. on Thursday, February 6, 2025, targeted notorious criminal black spots within the Ibaka Fishing Port, an area long identified by security agencies as a hub for drug-related activities.

Acting on credible intelligence, police operatives stormed several hideouts simultaneously, overwhelming suspected dealers and users who had turned the bustling fishing port into a haven for criminal operations under the cover of night.

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Among those arrested were Sampson Newstyle, Godgift Benabinte, Michael Asukwo, Prince Ene, Goodnews Asukwo, Golden Edu, and 17 others, all male. The suspects are currently in custody as investigations continue.

Items recovered during the raid include large commercial quantities of dried leaves suspected to be Indian hemp, chemically enhanced variants of the substance, locally brewed illicit drinks, as well as containers and devices used for inhaling hard drugs, a haul police sources described as “significant and disturbing.”

According to the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, the operation forms part of sustained, intelligence-led efforts by the Command to dismantle criminal networks and reclaim public spaces across the state.

“Investigation is ongoing to determine the extent of the suspects’ involvement and to track other individuals connected to the drug network operating within the Ibaka axis,” DSP John said.

He assured residents that the area remains calm, with enhanced patrols and surveillance already deployed to prevent a resurgence of criminal activity.

The Police Command reiterated its zero-tolerance stance on drug abuse and trafficking, warning criminal elements that no area of the state would be allowed to serve as a safe haven for illegal activities.

It says the successful raid has been widely welcomed by residents and stakeholders in the coastal community, who have long raised concerns over the impact of drug abuse and criminality on youth and economic activities in the area.