Youths in Nkpolu, a community in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State, have reportedly apprehended and flogged a serving police officer and two other individuals over alleged involvement in hard drug use.
As part of a community-driven anti-drug campaign tagged “No to Drug Abuse,” Nkpolu youths have taken a firm stance against drug use and trafficking within their locality. Community leaders claim that drug abuse has led to widespread social and economic deterioration, including the loss of homes and family properties by affected residents.
The community youth leadership, which conducts routine patrols to enforce the anti-drug initiative, said the arrests were made during a raid on a suspected drug hideout. Among those detained was a police officer who identified himself as Joshua Eyong, currently serving in Obio/Akpor LGA. Eyong, who presented his service ID, did not refute the allegations during the incident.
Nkpolu Youth President, Owhonda Chamberlain, explained that the community is determined to eradicate drug abuse, noting the devastating impact it has had on local families.
“Our youths have lost homes and livelihoods to drug addiction,” Chamberlain said. “People now trade their family properties for drugs. We have resolved that drug activities—whether use or sale—are no longer welcome in Nkpolu. Anyone involved should go elsewhere.”
According to Chamberlain, the community is no longer willing to tolerate drug-related activities and will continue its campaign to restore order and protect its youth.
Meanwhile, Rivers State Police Command spokesperson, Grace Iringe-Koko, confirmed that the police became aware of the incident through a video circulating on social media. She stated that the officer involved has denied using drugs and that an investigation into the matter has been launched.
