NDLEA Arrests Abia drug dealer, seizes 1.217 kilos of drugs

A joint task force comprising members of the Abia State Homeland Security and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) apprehended over five suspected drug dealers and seized various narcotics weighing over 1.217 kilograms.

Senior Special Assistant to the governor on Homeland Security, Chukwunenye Alajemba, revealed the operation's success during a briefing in Umuahia. Alajemba stated, "On February 14, 2023, our joint team conducted a raid at no. 23 Arochukwu/Calabar Road in Umuahia, leading to the arrest of Adaobi Nweke, daughter of the late 'Joekin Jagwa,' along with a significant quantity of illicit substances."

The seized drugs included 321 sachets (500 grams) of dried weeds, 214 wraps (400 grams) of loud weed, 570 pinches of cocaine, approximately 150.5 grams of loose cocaine, 310 pinches (37.8 grams) of heroin, and 129.1 grams of methamphetamine ice, totaling 1.217 kilograms. The suspects apprehended comprised two males and three females.

Additionally, the task force targeted a notorious area in Umuahia known as "Down Below," where they intercepted narcotics at a local hotel. Investigations are ongoing, and individuals are currently being interrogated.

Alajemba emphasized that Adaobi, despite being a lawyer by profession, had been involved in the drug trade for over two decades. He commended the cooperation between the state's NDLEA and Director Amos Adelenwa, lamenting that drug trafficking serves as a catalyst for kidnapping and other criminal activities.

Governor Alex Otti issued a stern warning to criminals, stating that anyone engaging in illegal activities would face consequences similar to Adaobi's. He affirmed, "No drug lord will find refuge in this state."

Alajemba urged parents to counsel their children against unlawful behavior and expressed gratitude to the NDLEA, declaring, "Abia will not harbor criminals."

Deputy Governor Ikechukwu Emetu echoed the sentiment, cautioning criminals to steer clear of the state. He emphasized that drug-related activities hinder the state's development, emphasizing, "The time to leave is now. When we come for you, there will be no escape."