"The suspect was arrested in the early hours of today, 29th August 2026, by operatives of the Rapid Response Team during an intelligence-driven patrol operation along the Nteje-Otuocha Road," the police said.
The police in Anambra State say they have arrested a suspected drug dealer, Chinedu Nwankwo, while he was allegedly conveying illicit drugs to criminals in different communities of the state.
The police spokesperson in the state, Tochukwu Ikenga, disclosed this in a statement on Saturday.
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Mr Ikenga, a superintendent of police, said operatives recovered from the suspect a large quantity of substances believed to be Cannabis Sativa, Methamphetamine and Colorado (Colos), estimated to be worth N5.8 million.
"The suspect was arrested in the early hours of today, 29th August 2026, by operatives of the Rapid Response Team during an intelligence-driven patrol operation along the Nteje-Otuocha Road.
"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," he said.
The spokesperson said police investigators were also examining the alleged connection of the consignments with activities capable of disrupting Saturday's local government 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," he said.
Mr Ikenga said the Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, Nnanna Ama, praised the operatives for their vigilance and sustained patrols, particularly during Saturday's council election.
Mr Ama noted that illicit drugs remain among the factors that can fuel criminality, as drug trafficking and abuse may provide resources and embolden individuals involved in violent and other forms of crime.
The commissioner then reiterated that the police command would continue to intensify intelligence-led operations and targeted raids on identified criminal hideouts in the state in collaboration with sister security agencies.
The police chief maintained that such intensified operations would prevent criminal activities and nip them in the bud.
He further assured residents of Enugu State that the police command remains committed to maintaining public safety and protecting the integrity of the electoral process throughout the state.
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