Police Dismantle Drug Trafficking Syndicate in Anambra, Arrest Six Suspects Including Female Dealer

Authorities in Anambra State have successfully dismantled a drug trafficking ring operating in Isuaniocha, a community in Awka North Local Government Area, following a coordinated operation by law enforcement officers. The raid, which took place in the early hours of Thursday, May 30, 2025, resulted in the arrest of six individuals, including a woman believed to be a major player in the distribution of illegal drugs within the area.

The Anambra State Police Command, through its spokesperson DSP Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed the development in a statement released on Saturday. According to him, the operation was executed by operatives attached to the Special Cultism Squad, Obosi Sector, acting on intelligence gathered over time about the activities of the network.

“Following actionable intelligence, our operatives stormed a location in Isuaniocha and successfully uncovered a drug trafficking network. During the raid, six suspects were apprehended, among them a female suspect who is strongly believed to be a key distributor,” Ikenga stated.

Items recovered from the scene included a substantial quantity of dried leaves suspected to be cannabis, along with other illicit substances and paraphernalia typically associated with the sale and distribution of narcotics. The recovery, according to police sources, underscores the scale and potential threat the drug ring posed to the community.

The arrested individuals were identified as 32-year-old Chinyere Onwuka, who is the suspected female dealer, 36-year-old John Kennedy Onwuka, 30-year-old Chidiebere Onyeze, 35-year-old Echeazu Nonso, 21-year-old Osita Chukwu Chialuka, and 25-year-old Nnebedum Wisdom. All suspects are currently in police custody and are expected to be handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further investigation and prosecution.

The Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, CP Ikioye Orutugu, expressed grave concern over the increasing rate of drug abuse among young people in the state. He emphasized that the misuse of illicit drugs is a major driver of violent crime and antisocial behavior, contributing to a broader culture of lawlessness.

In response, CP Orutugu has reiterated the commitment of the Police Command to intensify its campaign against the distribution and consumption of illegal drugs. He said the Command would scale up its implementation of the Police Campaign Against Cultism and Other Vices (POCACOV) a nationwide initiative aimed at educating youths about the dangers of substance abuse and criminal involvement.

“Drugs are the oxygen fueling most crimes and deviant behavior in our society,” the Commissioner said. “Through POCACOV, we aim to engage our young people, create awareness, and offer them meaningful alternatives to drug use and cult-related activities.”

The arrest of the suspects has sent a strong signal to criminal elements within the state that the security agencies remain vigilant and are prepared to confront those undermining the peace and safety of residents. The police have urged members of the public to continue to provide credible information that could assist in identifying and dismantling other criminal networks operating in Anambra State.

This latest development is part of broader efforts by security agencies to curb the growing menace of drug abuse and trafficking in Nigeria’s Southeast region, a challenge that has gained increasing national attention due to its impact on public health and safety.