The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has detained 30 suspected drug dealers as part of a renewed crackdown on illicit substances in the state.

The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, disclosed this yesterday in Uyo, stating that the command had intensified intelligence-driven operations targeting dealers of Indian hemp and other prohibited drugs.

According to her, coordinated raids on identified flashpoints led to multiple arrests and the recovery of significant quantities of suspected illicit substances.

“No fewer than 30 suspects are currently in custody, while 20 will be charged to court upon the conclusion of ongoing investigations,” she said.

John explained that the operations were strategically planned and executed simultaneously in known criminal hideouts following actionable intelligence.

She added that the Commissioner of Police, Baba Azare, had directed that the clampdown on drug trafficking and distribution be sustained.

Quoting the commissioner, she said Azare had warned individuals involved in the unlawful trade of Indian hemp and other illicit substances to desist or leave the state.

John noted that the proliferation of illicit drugs was linked to cultism, armed robbery and other violent crimes, as well as the erosion of family and community values.

“The command is unwavering in its resolve to dismantle networks that threaten the safety and future of our state. Akwa Ibom is no longer a safe operating ground for drug barons and peddlers. Surveillance mechanisms have been reinforced, intelligence gathering enhanced and inter-agency collaborations strengthened. Those who disregard this warning will face enforcement actions, arrest, prosecution and the full weight of the law,” she said.

The command urged parents, traditional institutions, youth leaders and other stakeholders to provide timely information to assist ongoing efforts to curb drug-related crimes.