The Nigeria Police Force in Akwa Ibom State has announced the recovery of a locally made pistol and a substantial quantity of substances believed to be Indian hemp during an operation in Ibeno Local Government Area. The operation, conducted on Sunday, was based on credible intelligence regarding suspicious activities involving the concealment and distribution of illicit substances in the area.
Operation Details
According to a statement issued by the state police spokesperson, Deputy Superintendent Timfon John, officers carried out a targeted operation following intelligence and surveillance. This led to the recovery of one locally made pistol, a large amount of substances suspected to be Indian hemp, and several wraps of suspected hard drugs allegedly packaged for distribution. The exhibits have been secured pending further investigation.
Investigation and Public Safety
The command stated that preliminary findings suggest the recovered firearm and narcotics may be linked to criminals engaged in activities threatening public safety and law and order in the area. While no arrests have been made yet, efforts are intensified to identify and apprehend those connected to the recovered items.
Context of Recent Police Operations
This development follows a recent report by Premium Times that police in Akwa Ibom recovered 69 firearms and arrested 178 suspects involved in armed robbery, kidnapping, cultism, drug trafficking, and other crimes between January and May. Commissioner of Police Baba Azare noted that intelligence-led operations across the state also led to the arrest of a suspected drug kingpin and the recovery of 23 bags of substances suspected to be Indian hemp. Additionally, last week, police arrested a 63-year-old man allegedly involved in drug trafficking and recovered two large bags of suspected cannabis during an operation in the state.
