PICTORIAL: Police Bust Drug Cartel, Arrest 5 Suspects, Recover Illicit Substances

In the ongoing raids of crime-prone locations around the suburban communities of Akwa Ibom State, operatives of the State Police Command have busted a drug cartel in Eket local government area of the State, arresting five suspects and seizing large quantities of illicit drugs.

The Police Spokesperson in the State, DSP Timfon John, who disclosed this to journalists on Tuesday at the Command’s headquarters, Ikot Akpanabia, Uyo, said the suspects comprised three males and two females.

She said: “In furtherance of the directive of the Commissioner of Police, Baba Azare, aimed at intensifying raids on criminal hideouts and identified black spots across the State, operatives of the Command have recorded another operational success.

“At about 0400hrs on 9th February, 2026, Police operatives stormed an identified black spot in Eket, where five suspects – three males and two females were arrested.”

She listed the arrested suspects to include Bassey Bassey, Blessing Joshua, Christiana Emmanuel, Alfa Bamese and Chidiebere Ekwozor.

During the operation, the PPRO stated that incriminating items recovered were dried leaves suspected to be Colorado (Colos), Loud and liquid substances suspected to be intoxicants, assorted Tramadol, Codeine tablets and Methamphetamine, otherwise known as Ice

Others were one unknown black powder,
an ATM card, cash sum of ₦15,800, several pictures and documents.

The Police spokesperson added that, “the suspects are currently undergoing thorough investigation to ascertain the extent of their involvement and possible links to criminal activities.”

One of the suspects – Alfa Bamese, she explained, claimed that the recovered pictures were meant for an assignment; adding, however, that investigations were ongoing to verify the claim.

“The Command remains unwavering in its commitment to rid the State of criminal elements and calls on members of the public to continue supporting the Police with timely and credible information,” she assured.

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