The Cross River State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has arrested a married couple for allegedly possessing 360 bags of marijuana, weighing 4.706 tonnes, in Yakurr Local Government Area.
The suspects, 52-year-old teacher Mr. Onun Ikoli and his wife, Mrs. Itam Onun, reportedly told investigators that the drugs belonged to a tenant who had fled the scene.
Mrs. Onun, explaining her presence in NDLEA custody, said, “I was arrested and brought here because I am the landlady.
My husband and I collected N50,000 for a single room from a tenant, unaware that he was a drug dealer.”
The Cross River State NDLEA Commander, Mr. John Anteyi, confirmed that the couple denied any involvement in drug trafficking, insisting they were oblivious to the tenant’s activities.
Anteyi added that the investigation is ongoing, reiterating the agency’s commitment, under the leadership of Rtd. Brigadier General Maruwa, to eradicate illicit drug trade in the state.
He further commended the Cross River State Governor for supporting the agency’s operations and urged residents to assist the NDLEA by providing useful information that could lead to the arrest of other suspects involved in the trade.