CALABAR, June 12, 2025 — The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Cross River State has confiscated a staggering 2,687 tonnes of cannabis sativa and its seeds during a raid in Obereakai community, Akamkpa Local Government Area. The operation, which lasted four hours, was conducted overnight following credible intelligence.

Speaking during a press briefing in Calabar, the State Commander of the NDLEA, Rachael Umebuali, confirmed that officers stormed a warehouse containing large quantities of the illicit substance between 11 p.m. and 3 a.m. The haul included 163 kilograms of cannabis seeds, which she noted could be used to cultivate up to 1,000 hectares of farmland. According to her, the implications of such a quantity of drugs reaching society would be devastating.

Three suspects were arrested during the operation. One of them, 47-year-old Friday Archibong, claimed to be the landlord of the premises and alleged that the property had been rented to a man identified as Ruben Udo, who reportedly fled with his family before the raid. Another suspect, 21-year-old Abraham Anthony, stated during interrogation that the drugs were typically transported by boat via the Okpo River from farms owned by Udo. The third suspect, 24-year-old Utibe Okon, was also taken into custody.

Umebuali expressed deep concern about the use of remote, difficult-to-access areas by drug traffickers to conduct their illegal operations. She assured the public that the agency remains committed to pursuing such criminals no matter how inaccessible their hideouts may seem.

“We are not deterred by terrain or distance. As long as they can get there, so can we. Combating this menace is our duty, and we will not relent,” she said.

The NDLEA Commander also extended appreciation to the Cross River State Government and particularly the Office of the State Security Adviser for the logistical support that enabled the successful raid.

She reiterated the agency’s resolve to track down the primary suspect, Ruben Udo, and ensure all those involved are prosecuted according to the law. “This is not just about arresting three people. We will go after the key players and ensure justice is served,” she said.

Umebuali emphasized that the NDLEA remains steadfast in its mission to protect communities from the threat of drug trafficking and abuse.