Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
Enugu, Nigeria — The Enugu State Police Command has arrested four suspected drug peddlers and seized a significant cache of illicit substances and cash in coordinated, intelligence-led operations across the Enugu metropolis, police officials confirmed Tuesday.
The arrests come as part of an intensified campaign by the command to disrupt drug distribution networks and stem rising concerns over narcotics-related criminality in the state. According to an official statement released by the police spokesperson, operatives from the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team and the Anti-Cultism Squad carried out separate raids that led to the apprehension of the suspects and recovery of evidence.
In the first documented raid on January 26, 2026, at about 11:30 a.m., officers acting on credible intelligence stormed a hideout behind New Market, where they detained a 46-year-old woman identified as Omeru Nkechi. Officers recovered a large bag containing a substance suspected to be cannabis, along with a significant collection of materials suggestive of illicit trade and financial proceeds. Recovered items included the suspected cannabis, a water-pumping machine, a POS terminal, two ATM cards and a cash sum of ₦1.8 million — a combination authorities said indicates active involvement in drug distribution rather than mere possession. This operation was carried out by the command’s SWAT unit following guidance from intelligence sources.
In a related series of operations on January 25, 2026, the Anti-Cultism Squad targeted several black spots in Obeagu, Asata and the Holy Ghost Railway Area of Enugu. Three male suspects — identified as Anielozie Emmanuel, 21; Ekoh Miracle, 20; and Nwachukwu Michael, 27 — were arrested in connection with alleged drug peddling activities. Police also reported that Michael is suspected of affiliations with the Vikings Confraternity, an organisation linked to organised crime and cultism in parts of Nigeria.
During that operation, officers recovered multiple small containers believed to contain cannabis, a sachet of the same suspected substance, and twelve wrapped pills suspected to be hard drugs. The packaging and quantity of the seized substances, police said, point to distribution for sale rather than personal use.
Officials emphasised that the conduct of both raids was informed by actionable intelligence aimed at dismantling networks that facilitate the supply of illicit drugs within the urban centre. The recovered cash and drug-related paraphernalia from the New Market operation represent a substantial blow to suspected distribution activities, while the separate seizures across Obeagu, Asata and railway neighbourhoods further demonstrate the breadth of enforcement action.
The Commissioner of Police in Enugu State, CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa, reiterated the command’s commitment to combating narcotics trafficking, cultism and related criminality as part of a broader internal security strategy. In the official statement, the police urged residents to cooperate by providing credible information to law enforcement agencies, noting that community support remains crucial to sustaining pressure on drug syndicates and other criminal networks operating within the state.
“These operations underscore the command’s resolve to rid Enugu State of criminal elements and enhance public safety,” the spokesperson said, adding that discreet investigations are ongoing to identify and arrest additional suspects implicated in these and related activities.
The arrests and seizures have drawn attention across civil society and law enforcement communities, highlighting both persistent challenges in tackling drug-related crimes and the continued efforts of police to enforce the law. Residents and civic groups have welcomed the police actions, but some stakeholders emphasise the need for complementary social interventions to address underlying factors that contribute to drug demand and youth involvement in illegal trade.
Nigeria’s broader battle against narcotics trafficking involves coordinated efforts by multiple agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and other security organisations engaged in interdiction and community outreach. Recent high-profile actions by the NDLEA demonstrate the multifaceted nature of anti-drug efforts nationwide, including arrests of notable drug suspects and interceptions of large consignments of heroin, opioids and other restricted substances at key entry points such as international airports. These initiatives are part of sustained national efforts to disrupt networks that move illicit drugs across domestic and international borders.
Law enforcement officials stress that suspects arrested for drug trafficking offences face serious charges under Nigerian law, which carries severe penalties for trafficking and distribution of controlled substances. Convictions can result in lengthy imprisonment and substantial fines, particularly where evidence shows that suspects were engaged in organised distribution rather than personal use. The command has indicated that legal processes, including prosecution, will proceed following investigation and preparation of case files.
As the Enugu State Police Command continues its clampdown on drug peddling and associated crimes, authorities say they will sustain intelligence-driven operations and community engagement to improve public safety and reduce the influence of criminal networks in urban areas.
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