Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
The Anambra State Special Anti-Touting Squad has destroyed illicit drugs valued at approximately ₦50 million and arrested several suspects during a series of intelligence-led raids across Awka, the state capital, and its environs. The operation, which took place on Saturday, July 4, 2026, targeted locations where illicit substances were being sold and consumed, reaffirming the agency's zero-tolerance stance on drug abuse and touting activities in the state.
The Managing Director of the squad, Monday Nwokoye, who spoke during the raid, disclosed that the operation was carried out after credible intelligence gathering across various locations. He stated that the illicit drugs, estimated to be worth about ₦50 million, were recovered and subsequently destroyed to prevent them from re-entering society. Nwokoye also confirmed that those arrested in connection with the illegal business had been handed over to officers of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further investigation and prosecution.
The drugs destroyed included a wide range of substances, such as cocaine, Ghanaian loud, tramadol, cannabis sativa, and mkpuru mmiri (crystal methamphetamine), which have been linked to rising cases of drug abuse, mental health crises, and criminality across the state. Nwokoye warned individuals involved in the sale or consumption of illicit substances to desist or face strict legal consequences. He emphasized that the raid underscored the state government's commitment to dismantling illicit drug networks and curbing criminality, describing it as a significant enforcement exercise in the quest to rid Anambra of touting, hard drugs, and all forms of crime.
The squad boss also appreciated Governor Chukwuma Soludo for his support to the agency and assured residents that officers would continue to discharge their mandate without fear or favour. He urged the people of Anambra to speak up whenever they notice anything untoward in their local environments, stressing that early reporting would enable immediate action to be taken in order to build a liveable, secure, and prosperous homeland.
The operation comes amid a broader crackdown on illicit drugs in Anambra State. The NDLEA has intensified its war against drug trafficking, arresting 559 suspects and securing 128 convictions over the past 11 months, with over 1.8 tonnes of illicit substances recovered during that period. The latest operation by the Special Anti-Touting Squad adds to these efforts, signaling a coordinated approach by state and federal agencies to tackle the growing drug menace.
Nwokoye further warned drug peddlers to leave the state or face the full wrath of the law, reiterating that the agency would not relent in its pursuit of those who threaten the safety and well-being of residents. The destruction of the ₦50 million worth of drugs and the arrest of suspects mark a significant victory in the ongoing battle against substance abuse and criminality in Anambra, as the government and security agencies continue to intensify efforts to create a safer environment for all citizens.
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