The Kogi State Police Command has intensified efforts to disrupt criminal networks and stop the movement of illegal drugs across the state.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Naziru Bello Kankarofi, gave the assurance in Lokoja on Tuesday while briefing journalists on the arrest of a 52-year-old man found with 339 wraps of a substance suspected to be cannabis.
He said the suspect was apprehended during a stop-and-search operation in Kabba, Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area.
According to him, the arrest was carried out on May 9 at about 2:00 p.m. following intelligence-driven policing and proactive security measures.
Officers attached to the Kabba Area Command intercepted a Honda Pilot Jeep with registration number LSD 456 GE during a routine check.
The vehicle was being driven by one Chris Amos, aged 52, with another suspect, identified as Bilat Joseph, on board.
A search of the vehicle reportedly led to the discovery of 339 wraps of suspected Indian hemp hidden inside.
Preliminary findings indicated that the suspects collected the consignment from Ado-Ekiti in Ekiti State on the instructions of an unidentified individual known only as “Alhaji”.
The police said efforts are ongoing to identify and apprehend the said “Alhaji”, whose location remains unknown.
Both suspects are currently in custody while the recovered exhibits have been secured for further investigation.
Kankarofi stated that investigations are continuing to uncover other members of the drug trafficking network and ensure all those involved are brought to justice.
He warned that drug trafficking remains a major factor driving violent crime and insecurity in society.
The police commissioner reaffirmed the command’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property through intelligence-led policing and collaboration with other security agencies and the public.
He also expressed appreciation to the Inspector-General of Police for strategic support, Governor Ahmed Ododo for assistance to security operations, and residents for providing useful information that aided the arrest.
He further urged members of the public to remain vigilant and continue sharing credible intelligence with the police to help curb crime across the state.