Anambra State Police Command has arrested 54 suspects in Ogidi, Idemili North Local Government Area.
The suspects, comprising 39 males and 15 females, were nabbed during a raid of black spots.
The command’s spokesperson, Tochukwu Ikenga, said at a press conference yesterday, that the suspects were undergoing screening and profiling, after which those found culpable would be charged.
Ikenga revealed the suspects were arrested for various offenses, including cultism, drug peddling, and kidnapping. The operations led to the recovery of 11 bags of dried leaves suspected to be Cannabis Sativa (Indian hemp).
He said the operatives of Special Anti-Cult Squad (SPACS) also arrested a 25-year-old man, Chiderah Obochi, Enugwu-Ukwu along Old Onitsha/Awka Road with some quantities of dried leaves suspected to be Indian hemp.
“Upon interrogation, he confessed to being a drug runner in Umudioka Village, Dunukofia Local Government Area. He led the team to the house of the one Ginika Okeke in Umudioka Village, but the suspect was not met at home.
“However, 11 bags containing a very large quantity of dried leaves suspected to be Cannabis Sativa (Indian Hemp) worth N10million were recovered from the house.
“The recovered hard substances will be handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further necessary action.
“The command is also working on credible intelligence to identify and apprehend drug dealers supplying these harmful substances,” he added.
Ikenga attributed the trend partly to declining levels of parental supervision and poor guidance over their children and wards.
He said the command has intensified surveillance, patrols, and intelligence-gathering to nip such incidents in the bud.
“In addition, the command has strategised further by adopting kinetic and non-kinetic approaches.
“These include inviting individuals suspected to be with cult groups for questioning, as well as conducting targeted raids on drug hideouts.
“On behalf of the Commissioner of Police, Ikioye Orutugu, the Command reassures Ndi Anambra of her commitment to restoring sanity, protecting lives and property, and ensuring that the state remains safe for all law-abiding residents,” Ikenga stated.