Reported By Mary Udezue | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
In a decisive move to stem the rising tide of drug abuse and associated criminality, the Special Anti‑Touting Squad for Anambra State (SASA) has destroyed illicit drugs with an estimated street value exceeding ₦100 million at its headquarters in Awka. The action marks a significant escalation in the state’s ongoing campaign against narcotics, touting and other social vices perceived to undermine public safety and the future of Anambra’s youth.
The destruction, carried out on Friday, was overseen by SASA’s Managing Director, Honourable Monday Nwokoye, who underscored the agency’s commitment to zero tolerance for drug proliferation in communities across the state. Addressing journalists and invited stakeholders at the SASA facility, Nwokoye said the operation reflects a sustained effort to sanitize the state and send a clear message that law enforcement agencies in Anambra will not relent in confronting drug traffickers, abusers, and their networks.
According to the SASA chief, the seized substances include a variety of controlled and illicit drugs, ranging from cannabis (locally known as “igbo” or “weed”), tramadol and other hard narcotics, to psychotropic substances commonly trafficked among teenagers and young adults. He explained that the estimated value of the narcotics destroyed — over ₦100 million — represents only a fraction of what has been collected in recent enforcement operations, with ongoing investigations expected to yield further seizures.
“Our stand is firm: drugs have no place in Anambra State,” Nwokoye stated. “We will pursue every lead, every syndicate, every dealer, and every collaborator, to ensure that our communities are free from the scourge of illicit substances. The future of our youth and the safety of our citizens demand nothing less.” He urged parents, community leaders and residents to partner with SASA and other security agencies by promptly reporting suspicious activities, especially in neighbourhoods, schools, markets and entertainment districts.
The destruction ceremony — which included representatives from civil society groups, traditional rulers, youth organisations, and state security operatives — was designed to be both symbolic and practical, signalling the government’s resolve to treat drug abuse as a critical threat to socio‑economic development. The compounds were incinerated under strict supervision, with law enforcement officials ensuring that no substance remained recoverable or usable.
Honourable Nwokoye emphasised that the fight against drugs goes beyond enforcement alone, requiring a multi‑sectoral approach that includes education, rehabilitation, community engagement and preventive initiatives. He noted that SASA is working with schools, religious bodies and parent‑teacher associations to integrate anti‑drug messaging into community programmes, and to create safe spaces for young people away from harmful influences.
“We understand that enforcement is necessary but it is not enough,” Nwokoye said. “We must also educate, empower and uplift our youth so that they do not fall prey to addiction, exploitation or criminal recruitment. This is why SASA’s mandate includes prevention, outreach and collaboration with all stakeholders who share our vision for a healthy, secure and prosperous Anambra.”
Governor Chukwuma Soludo, who has thrown the weight of his administration behind the anti‑touting and anti‑drug campaign, was commended for providing the political support and operational backing needed to sustain the initiative. In his remarks earlier this week, the governor reiterated that insecurity, drug abuse and youth delinquency are interconnected challenges that require bold action and continuous oversight.
State officials say that the success of recent operations is tied to strengthened intelligence gathering, improved inter‑agency coordination, and a willingness to pursue suspects without fear or favour. In recent months, SASA and its partners have conducted targeted raids, surveillance operations, and community patrols that have led to the arrest of suspected touts, drug dealers, facilitators and other criminal elements.
While the precise number of arrests tied to the latest seizures was not disclosed at the press briefing, Nwokoye assured that suspects apprehended in connection with the narcotics have been or will be prosecuted in accordance with the law. He stressed that due process remains central to the squad’s operations, and that every case will be handled transparently to safeguard both public interest and legal integrity.
The public reaction to the announcement has been largely positive, with many community leaders applauding the government’s firm stance. Traditional rulers in Awka and neighbouring communities described the destruction of seized drugs as a “welcome relief,” particularly for parents concerned about the influence of illegal substances on their children.
One community leader attending the event remarked, “For too long, we have seen our youth fall into addiction and crime because drugs are widely available and cheap. Today’s action gives us hope that there is a concerted effort to turn the tide, and we pledge to support the government in every way we can.”
Civil society organisations present at the event also echoed calls for expanded rehabilitation services for users and former addicts seeking to break free from dependency. They argued that while seizures and arrests are critical, they must be paired with access to counselling, vocational training and reintegration programmes that give individuals alternatives to life in the shadows of addiction and crime.
Some youth groups have already signalled plans to organise peer‑led awareness campaigns, street walks, radio programmes and social media projects aimed at demystifying drug use and empowering young people to make healthy, constructive choices. These efforts are expected to complement SASA’s enforcement activities and contribute to a broader culture of accountability and resilience.
Experts on drug policy and youth development note that Nigeria’s broader struggles with illicit substances mirror global trends, but that states like Anambra, which take proactive and coordinated approaches, are better positioned to mitigate the harmful effects on families and communities. These professionals stress the importance of early intervention, community resilience, and sustained political commitment to achieve meaningful progress.
For now, the destruction of drugs worth over ₦100 million stands as a dramatic assertion of authority and a milestone in Anambra’s fight against narcotics. As media coverage and public discourse continue to spotlight the issue, state authorities have reiterated their demand for collective vigilance, urging citizens not to become complacent but to remain engaged in the shared work of securing a safer tomorrow.
Members of the public are encouraged to report cases of drug trafficking, touting or associated crimes through SASA’s hotline or through local community policing channels. Meanwhile, the squad has promised to maintain its operational tempo, signalling that further seizures and enforcement actions are likely in the weeks and months ahead.
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