Police operatives from the Rivers State Command have reportedly stormed the Nkpolu community in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, arresting scores of youths, women, and men.
The operation, which took place around 4:00 p.m., followed reports that some youths on a “No Drug Abuse” campaign had allegedly assaulted a policeman and two others accused of using illicit drugs. Witnesses said the police, who arrived in about eight vans, were led by the officer allegedly beaten by the youths.
The state police command, however, said the raid was based on a complaint by one Nyian, who reported a case of assault and stealing against the community youths.
Nkpolu youths, led by their chairman, Owhondah Chamberlain, had recently launched a campaign against drug abuse, vowing to rid the area of substances they claim are fueling crime. Chamberlain insisted the initiative was not targeted at anyone, adding that the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) was aware of the campaign, and that drug sellers apprehended had been handed over to the agency.
As of press time, the police had yet to clarify the fate of the arrested residents.
