The Anambra State Police Command has arrested 54 people and seized a significant quantity of hard drugs in a renewed effort to combat cultism and drug abuse.
The arrests, which included 39 males and 15 females, were the result of coordinated raids in Ogidi and Ifitedunu.
Speaking at a press briefing on Monday, Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, expressed concern over the rising trend of crime among youth, particularly those aged 18 to 26.
He noted a disturbing increase in fake kidnappings where young people conspire to extort money from their parents, citing two recent cases that involved demands for as much as N10 million.
The operations also targeted cult-related violence, which has recently escalated.
Ikenga further referenced a violent cult attack during a burial ceremony in Ezi-Ogidi that left four people dead and 15 wounded.
In a separate operation on September 12, a 25-year-old suspect, Chiderah Obochi, was arrested with what was believed to be Indian hemp.
Obochi confessed to being a drug runner and led police to a residence where 11 bags of cannabis sativa were recovered. The seized drugs are to be handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further action.
Ikenga stated that the police will continue to use a mix of intensified surveillance, patrols, and community engagement to keep the state safe.
He assured residents that the Police remain committed to protecting lives and property.