The Police Command in Akwa Ibom has arrested a suspected drug kingpin at Ituak Abang Village in Ibiono Ibom Local Government Area during a targeted intelligence-driven raid on a criminal hideout in the state.

The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, disclosed this to journalists in Uyo on Sunday.

John said the operation was carried out in compliance with the directives of the Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Azare.

She said the police patrol teams stormed a suspected criminal hideout following credible intelligence on the activities of criminal elements on Saturday at about 07:30 a.m.

“The operation was carried out in compliance with the directives of the Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Azare, on sustained purposeful and intelligence-led raids aimed at dismantling criminal networks and ensuring public safety across the state.

“Upon sighting the police patrol vehicles, several suspects fled the scene,” John said.

John said a spot search conducted on the suspect led to the recovery of a wrapped quantity of illicit substance suspected to be Indian hemp in his possession.

She said the suspect was currently in police custody while investigation was ongoing to determine the full extent of his involvement in criminal activities and to apprehend other fleeing accomplices.

John reiterated commitment to sustained intelligence-driven operations aimed at combating drug-related crimes and other criminal activities within the state.

She urged members of the public to remain vigilant and continue to support the Police by providing useful and timely information that can assist in identifying and apprehending criminal elements in their communities. (NAN)