By Okechukwu Onuegbu
Anambra State Police command, Saturday, said it has recovered N5.8 million worth illicit drugs from suspected trafficker, Mr Chinedu Nwankwo along the Nteje–Otuocha Road, Anambra East Local Government Area (LGA).
The suspect, according to the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Mr Tochukwu Ikenga, was allegedly conveying the illicit substances to communities within Anambra East, Anambra West and Ayamelum LGAs when he was arrested at early hours of Saturday, August 29th.
He said, "The Anambra State Police Command has arrested a 28-year-old suspected drug dealer, identified as Chinedu Nwankwo, and recovered a large quantity of suspected Cannabis Sativa, Methamphetamine and Colorado (Colos), estimated at ₦5.8 million.
"Preliminary investigation indicates that the suspect was allegedly conveying the illicit substances to Otuocha, Anyamelium, Nzam, Umuleri and Aguleri areas for delivery to suspected criminal elements. Investigators are also examining the alleged connection of the consignments with activities capable of disrupting the ongoing Local Government Council elections in the State.
"The suspect and recovered exhibits are currently in police custody, while investigation is ongoing to establish the full extent of the suspect’s activities and identify other persons who may be connected to the alleged network. The State Commissioner of Police, CP Nnanna Oji Ama, noted that illicit drugs remain among the factors that can fuel criminality.
"The Commissioner therefore reiterated that the Command will continue to intensify intelligence-led operations and targeted raids on identified criminal hideouts and other locations of interest across the State, in collaboration with sister security agencies, to prevent criminal activities and nip them in the bud."