The Anambra State Police Command has arrested a 28-year-old suspected drug dealer, Chinedu Nwankwo, and recovered illicit substances estimated at ₦5.8 million during an intelligence-led operation in Otuocha.
Nwankwo was arrested in the early hours of Saturday, August 29, 2026, by operatives of the Rapid Response Team while conducting an intelligence-driven patrol along the Nteje–Otuocha Road.
The police said the operation led to the recovery of a large quantity of suspected Cannabis Sativa, Methamphetamine and Colorado, popularly known as “Colos.”
Preliminary investigation indicated that the suspect was allegedly transporting the substances to Otuocha, Anyamelium, Nzam, Umuleri and Aguleri for delivery to suspected criminal elements.
The Command said investigators were also examining possible links between the recovered consignments and activities capable of disrupting the ongoing local government elections in the state.
The suspect and recovered exhibits remain in police custody as investigation continues to establish the full extent of his alleged activities and identify other persons who may be connected to the suspected network.
The Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, CP Nnanna Oji Ama, commended the Rapid Response Team for its vigilance and sustained patrols, particularly during the election period.
Ama noted that illicit substances could fuel criminality, stressing that trafficking and abuse could provide resources and embolden individuals involved in violent and other forms of crime.
He consequently directed personnel to sustain intelligence-led operations and targeted raids on identified criminal hideouts and other locations of interest across the state.
The commissioner said the operations would be conducted in collaboration with sister security agencies to prevent criminal activities and nip them in the bud.
He further assured residents that the Command would continue to prioritise public safety while working to protect the integrity of the electoral process throughout Anambra State.
