The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency in Cross River State has made a significant drug bust, apprehending a 52-year-old teacher and his wife for allegedly possessing a massive quantity of marijuana.
Major Drug Seizure in Yakurr Local Government
Onun Ikoli, a teacher aged 52, and his wife, Mrs Itam Onun, were taken into custody after NDLEA operatives discovered 360 bags of marijuana in their possession. The illicit substance weighed an astonishing 4.706 tonnes, marking one of the substantial drug seizures in the state recently.
The arrest occurred in the Yakurr Local Government Area of Cross River State, where the couple resided. State NDLEA commander John Anteyi confirmed the development on Wednesday, revealing crucial details about the case.
Suspects Claim Innocence, Point to Absconded Tenant
According to Commander Anteyi, the arrested couple has denied any involvement in the drug trade, claiming the substances belonged to a tenant who fled during the arrest operation.
The suspects maintained they were completely unaware their tenant was involved in drug dealing, stating they had only collected N50,000 as rent payment for a single room from the individual now suspected to be a drug dealer.
When questioned about his presence in NDLEA custody, Onun Ikoli insisted, "My hands are clean." His wife, Mrs Itam Onun, echoed this sentiment, explaining, "I was arrested and brought here because I am the landlady. My husband and I collected the sum of N50,000 for a single room from a tenant, unknown to us that the tenant was a drug dealer."
Ongoing Investigation and Official Statements
Commander Anteyi emphasized that investigations are actively continuing to uncover all parties involved in the illicit drug network. "As I speak, the investigation is still ongoing," Anteyi stated. "The NDLEA boss, Mohammed Marwa, is bent on bringing this illicit trade to an end. Our ears are still on the ground to arrest more suspects."
The NDLEA commander also acknowledged the support received from Cross River State Governor Bassey Otu, noting that the governor has been instrumental in assisting the agency's anti-drug efforts. "We equally commend the Cross River State Governor, Bassey Otu, for giving us assistance. He has been helpful," Anteyi said.
Authorities are urging residents to collaborate with law enforcement by providing useful information that could lead to more arrests in the fight against drug trafficking. The case highlights the ongoing challenges faced by drug enforcement agencies in curbing the illegal drug trade within Nigerian communities.
