By Kelvin Obambon
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Cross River State has apprehended a 52-year-old teacher, Mr. Onun Ikoli, and his wife, Mrs. Itam Onun, in the Yakurr local government area. The couple was arrested for being in possession of 360 bags of marijuana (Indian Hemp), which had a total weight of 4,706kg.
According to the state NDLEA Commander, Mr. John Anteyi, the suspects claimed the substantial drug haul belonged to a tenant who is currently at large.
Mrs. Itam Onun, the wife, offered her reason for the arrest, stating, “I was arrested and brought here because I am the landlady.”
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She further explained their alleged limited involvement, saying: “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.”
Anteyi noted that the couple denied any participation, maintaining they were unaware of the tenant’s illicit trade and had only received N50,000 as rent.
Commander Anteyi emphasized the NDLEA’s resolve to combat the drug trade, stating “As I speak, investigation is still ongoing.” He added that the NDLEA boss, Rtd Brigadier General Maruwa, “is bent on bringing this illicit trade to an end.”
Anteyi also commended the Cross River State Governor for his “assistance” and being “helpful.”
Finally, the commander appealed to the residents of the state to assist the Command by providing vital information that could lead to the arrest of individuals involved in the illegal business.
