The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has recorded a major breakthrough in its fight against crime, following the arrest of a suspected drug baron and the dismantling of a notorious criminal hideout in Itu Local Government Area.
The suspect, identified as Ofonime Etim, was apprehended during a coordinated intelligence-led operation carried out by police operatives in Ikot Ebom Itam.
The operation targeted a location believed to serve as a hub for drug trafficking and a storage point for stolen goods.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, the raid led to the recovery of large quantities of substances suspected to be Indian hemp, as well as several items believed to be stolen.
These include vandalised electrical cables, roofing sheets, aluminium windows, cartons of provisions and beverages, sachet illicit gin, and various electronic appliances.
Security operatives also recovered dangerous weapons such as axes and machetes, alongside multiple packs of rolling papers commonly used for drug consumption.
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Preliminary investigations revealed that the location functioned as a major distribution centre for illicit drugs and a safe haven for criminal activities in the area.
The suspect reportedly confessed to stealing a submersible water pump belonging to the Ikot Ebom Itam Village Hall borehole facility, which had earlier been declared missing.
Community members have praised the police for the successful operation, noting that the activities of the suspect and his associates had long posed a serious threat to public safety.
The Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to sustaining its crackdown on criminal elements through ongoing operations.
He assured residents that efforts are in place to apprehend other members of the network and return recovered items to their rightful owners.
The suspect is expected to be charged in court upon the conclusion of investigations.
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