Police Raids in Asaba Lead to 23 Arrests, Recovery of Suspected Hard Drugs

A series of police operations across parts of Asaba and Okpanam in Delta State has led to the arrest of 23 suspects and the recovery of large quantities of substances suspected to be illicit drugs.

The raids, carried out on May 22, targeted areas long identified by residents as hotspots for criminal activity, including black spots, brothels, and hideouts within the Okpanam axis and the Asaba metropolis.

The operation was coordinated by the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations and involved officers from the Department of Operations, Buffalo Team, and patrol teams attached to Okpanam.

During the exercise, security operatives stormed locations around the Hausa Market area in Okpanam, where 22 male suspects were arrested.

Items recovered during the operation included 72 bottles of CSC Codeine, 11 packs of Tramadol, as well as quantities of substances identified as Swinol, Canadian Loud, and weeds suspected to be Indian hemp.

Residents in parts of the area have repeatedly raised concerns over rising drug abuse and criminal activities linked to some of the locations raided during the operation.

The police also confirmed the recovery of a stolen HOWO trailer truck in a separate operation as part of the ongoing clampdown on crime across the state.

Authorities said the suspects and recovered exhibits have been transferred to the Special Enquiry Unit for profiling and further investigation, while those found culpable are expected to face prosecution.