The Anambra State Police Command has arrested a 28-year-old suspected drug dealer and recovered illicit drugs valued at about ₦5.8 million during an intelligence-led operation in Otuocha, as security agencies intensify efforts to secure the ongoing local government elections.
The suspect, identified as Chinedu Nwankwo, was arrested in the early hours of Friday along the Nteje–Otuocha Road by operatives of the Command’s Rapid Response Team.
Police spokesperson SP Tochukwu Ikenga said officers recovered a large quantity of suspected Cannabis Sativa, Methamphetamine and Colorado (Colos) from the suspect during the operation.
According to the Command, preliminary investigations indicate that the suspect was allegedly transporting the illicit substances to Otuocha, Anyamelum, Nzam, Umuleri and Aguleri for distribution to suspected criminal elements.
Investigators are also probing whether the seized consignment was connected to activities capable of disrupting the ongoing local government council elections in the state.
The suspect and the recovered exhibits remain in police custody while investigations continue to determine the full extent of the alleged drug trafficking network and identify other persons linked to it.
Commending the operatives for their vigilance, particularly during the election period, Commissioner of Police Nnanna Oji Ama said illicit drugs remain a major driver of criminal activities.
He noted that drug trafficking and abuse can provide resources and embolden individuals involved in violent crimes and other unlawful acts.
The police commissioner reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to intensifying intelligence-led operations and targeted raids on identified criminal hideouts across the state in collaboration with other security agencies.
He also assured residents that the Command would continue working to maintain public safety and safeguard the integrity of the electoral process throughout Anambra State.
