Police Arrest Two Over Suspected Drug Sales, Theft

Operatives of the Akwa Ibom State Police Command have arrested two suspects in separate operations in Uyo, recovering suspected Indian hemp and cable wires allegedly linked to criminal activities.

The arrests were made on October 14, 2026, during operations targeting suspected drug sales and other crimes in the state.

In a statement, the command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, said operatives arrested Gideon David at about 9.30pm following intelligence about the alleged sale of illicit drugs along Aka Itiam Street in Uyo Local Government Area.

She said a search conducted on the suspect reportedly led to the recovery of a large quantity of plant material suspected to be Indian hemp.

“David remains in police custody as investigators work to establish the extent of his alleged involvement and identify other persons who may be connected to the activity,” the statement said.

Police arrest second suspect over alleged theft

In a separate operation earlier that day, detectives arrested Godwin Paulinus over an alleged theft at a company in Udoduoma, near Tropicana, Uyo.

John said the detectives were dispatched after the police control room received a distress call about the incident at about 2.57pm.

The operatives reportedly recovered cable wires from a bag belonging to Paulinus during a search.

“Investigations are continuing to establish the circumstances of the alleged theft and determine whether others were involved,” John added.

Police pledge crackdown on criminal activities

The Commissioner of Police, Baba Azare, reiterated the command’s commitment to tackling illicit drug distribution and other criminal activities through intelligence-led policing and targeted operations in identified crime hotspots.

He said the operations formed part of the command’s strategy to disrupt drug networks, prevent crime and protect lives and property across Akwa Ibom State.

Azare urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements, drug-related activities and other criminal conduct to the nearest police station or through established police reporting channels.

He assured the public that credible information would be handled confidentially and acted upon professionally.

The command reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining peace, strengthening public confidence and ensuring the safety of residents, visitors and businesses across the state.