NSCDC finds hidden tunnels at Delta drug spot

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps has found underground tunnels at a heavily secured suspected drug hideout in Asaba, Delta State. This discovery comes as they investigate whether the place was used for other crimes.

The NSCDC reported that its Commandant’s Patrol Team found the tunnels during an operation on Monday, October 12. The location is at Fallingwater Colehouse Yahweh Close, off Akara Junction, along the 74 Junction, Asaba Specialist Hospital road.

DSC Anthony Akachukwu, the command’s Public Relations Officer, said operatives spent several days trying to access the building. They eventually used a blowtorch to break through the roof.

“This little place that you have seen captured is a very fortified hideout. It will surprise you that after making attempts for three days, they only got through today because they had to use a blowtorch to access this little building from the top,” Akachukwu told reporters after the operation.

He explained that the operatives faced many layers of strong iron doors and underground paths. These were allegedly used by people inside to escape from security operatives.

“After blowing through the top, we discovered other panels, layers of fortified iron doors and, getting into the drug hideout, we discovered that there are several tunnels which the criminals here used to escape most of the times when they are being checked or chased after,” he said.

Akachukwu mentioned that some suspects managed to escape during the operation. The size and design of the tunnels raised questions about whether the facility was used for more than just drug dealing.

He said they were looking into a possible connection to kidnapping but had not yet confirmed if the place was used for such crimes.

During the operation, the officers reportedly found drugs known as “Loud” and “Ice”, along with PVC gum and other items linked to the suspected drug trade. The command noted that some of the suspected operators got away with some of these substances.

A man named Yakubu was arrested after he allegedly showed up to buy drugs during the operation. According to Akachukwu, the man started negotiating with an operative he thought was a seller.

The spokesman said investigations were still ongoing and more arrests were likely.

“We intend to make more arrests and then at the end of the arrests necessary actions will be taken,” he said.

The command is also looking into a notebook found at the scene. The notebook reportedly contained notes suggesting payments had been made to security personnel.

However, the NSCDC has not named any personnel or agencies mentioned in the notebook. They have yet to confirm the contents and authenticity of the notebook independently.

A local resident, who asked to stay anonymous, claimed people had been visiting that location at various times for years. He said he had lived in the area for over six years and had often noticed strange movements around the property.

The resident alleged that customers could get drugs through an opening in the building without meeting the sellers directly. He also mentioned that cars and young people often visited the area late at night.

He urged the state government and security agencies to think about demolishing the building and closing the underground passages. He argued that just making arrests might not stop the suspected operation from starting up again.

Akachukwu said the command was checking into who owns the property but would not share details until they were confirmed.

“Investigations are ongoing to uncover the owner of the property. We already have information, but nothing will be made public until some ascertaining is done,” he said.

He added that the site would stay under watch while investigations continued.

“The scene of the crime will be under watch. Our men are still going to hang on here to ensure that it does not continue, at least until further arrests are made before any other investigation will be concluded for necessary court action,” he said.

The investigation aims to find out who controlled the property, who ran the suspected drug outlet, the purpose of the tunnels, and if anyone else was involved in the alleged activities.

The claims against the suspects and any mentions of security personnel are still under investigation and need proof before a court can decide.