NDLEA arrests 37 in Edo for drug offences, seizes over 345kg of narcotics and destroys farms.
Agency also secures convictions, counsels addicts, and vows sustained fight against drug abuse.
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Edo State has reported the arrest of 37 individuals in connection with drug trafficking and possession, with a total of 345.421 kilograms of various narcotics seized in the month of June.
The State Commander of the NDLEA, Mitchell Ofoyeju, made this known on Monday during a review of the agency’s recent operations in combating drug abuse and trafficking across the state.
Ofoyeju explained that the suspects include 25 men and 12 women, all apprehended as part of a larger crackdown on drug syndicates operating within Edo communities. He noted that the arrests were strategic moves aimed at weakening the drug supply network and responding to the growing concerns of substance abuse among residents.
He revealed that the first batch of seizures consisted of 310.485 kg of cannabis, 0.3415 kg of psychotropic substances, and 0.3175 kg of methamphetamine. In a separate operation, NDLEA operatives recovered an additional 33.226 kg of cannabis sativa, 0.67 kg of psychotropic substances, 0.373 kg of methamphetamine, 5 liters of codeine syrup, and 0.004 kg of cocaine, all of which were found abandoned.
In a further effort to stem the flow of illicit drugs, the agency also destroyed cannabis plantations measuring 7.27 hectares in size, located in the Okhuse and Ugbada Uzebba forests in Owan West Local Government Area. According to Ofoyeju, the destroyed farms could have yielded an estimated 18,184.7 kg of cannabis.
On legal enforcement, the commander stated that 11 drug-related cases were filed in court during the period under review, resulting in five convictions. He added that 107 cases remain pending at the Federal High Court in Benin.
Recognizing the role of rehabilitation and prevention, Ofoyeju said the Drug Demand Reduction Unit of the command provided counselling services to 32 individuals 18 men and 14 women who were dealing with substance use issues. The unit also carried out awareness campaigns and educational programs in partnership with several organizations across the state.
He concluded by reaffirming the agency’s determination to disrupt drug networks and reduce abuse through sustained enforcement and community engagement. According to him, the NDLEA remains committed to its mission and will continue to collaborate with stakeholders to create a drug-free environment in Edo.
