The Police have arrested seven suspects in a series of intelligence-led operations that led to the interception of 1,696 compressed parcels of substances suspected to be narcotic drugs, the Public Affairs Unit of the Oti Regional Police Command has announced.

In the first operation, on 13th February 2026 at about 11:15 p.m., a Police patrol team intercepted a Hyundai Atos taxi with registration number VR 188-16 on the Lekanti-Kute road. A search of the vehicle uncovered forty-eight (48) compressed parcels of substances suspected to be Indian hemp. The driver, Emmanuel Yao, 40, and a passenger, Felix Emulator, 37, were arrested on the spot.

Hours later, on 14th February 2026 at about 12:45 a.m., Police acted on intelligence indicating that compressed quantities of dried leaves suspected to be narcotics had been packaged at Tsikata, a suburb of Ahamansu, for smuggling to a neighbouring country.

A search at the identified house led to the recovery of one hundred and sixty-six (166) compressed parcels wrapped in yellow masking tape, concealed in three bags and three sacks. Three suspects were arrested at the scene, though they denied knowledge of the substances during preliminary interrogation. Another suspect, identified as Korsi Akpavi, managed to escape and is currently at large.

In the third operation, on 15th February 2026, Police carried out an intelligence-led operation after days of surveillance, intercepting a Benz Cargo Truck with registration number GS 3831-09 at Bodada. The vehicle, which appeared empty at first glance, was driven by suspect Amrado Justice Nelson, 50, with suspect Onaneye Yussif, 25, onboard.

A thorough search revealed specially modified sealed compartments underneath the floor of the cargo compartment, where one thousand four hundred and eighty-two (1,482) compressed parcels of substances suspected to be Indian hemp were found concealed.

All seven suspects are currently in Police custody assisting with investigations. The exhibits have been retained, and the vehicles involved have been impounded.

Deputy Superintendent of Police John Nchor, Head of the Public Affairs Unit for the Oti Region, confirmed that efforts are underway to apprehend the suspect who absconded.

He reiterated the Police commitment to combating drug trafficking and urged the public to continue volunteering information to support crime prevention and detection.