Addis Ababa Police Arrest Suspect Over Cannabis Cultivation Inside Residence

November 4, 2026 | By Semahegn Nigatu

Addis Ababa police have arrested a man suspected of growing cannabis inside his residence in the city's Akaki-Kality district, after uncovering 16 plants concealed among what appeared to be backyard vegetables.

The suspect, identified as Nahom Aynalem, was apprehended in the 5,000 Houses neighbourhood of Woreda 5 following information provided by local residents, according to the Addis Ababa Police Commission.

Meried Debele, deputy commander and head of the special crimes investigation department at the Akaki-Kality police division, said officers conducted a search based on the public tip-off and discovered the cannabis plants in 16 growing containers.

Police also said a subsequent body search found the suspect attempting to conceal an unspecified item inside his sock while being taken into custody.

The suspect was subsequently detained as police continued their investigation.

The Addis Ababa Police Commission urged residents to strengthen cooperation with law enforcement by reporting suspected criminal activities in their neighbourhoods.

Source: FSX Business News