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Nigeria’s National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Edo State Command, has recorded what it described as an impressive operational outing in April, arresting 29 suspected drug traffickers and seizing 10,359.71 kilograms of assorted narcotics.
State Commander of the agency, Mitchell Ofoyeju, disclosed that the suspects—19 males and 10 females, were apprehended during targeted raids on drug flashpoints and routine patrols across the state.
He gave a breakdown of the seizures to include 9,611.69kg of cannabis and 748.02kg of psychotropic substances, alongside tramadol, rohypnol, diazepam injections, bromazepam and codeine syrup.
In a related development, the command said it has destroyed an alleged cannabis farm measuring 0.912574 hectares at Egbeta Forest, Saboro Camp in Ovia North-East Local Government Area, with an estimated yield of 2,281.435kg.
Among major interceptions, Ofoyeju said operatives, on April 11, intercepted two articulated trucks loaded with 7,245kg of cannabis concealed in 483 sacks and hidden among alcoholic beverages along the Auchi-Abuja Road. Five suspects were said to have been arrested in connection with the seizure.
Ofoyeju added that a truck allegedly branded in the colours of the Nigeria Labour Congress was intercepted on April 22 along the Lagos-Benin Road, conveying 748.02kg of tramadol and other psychotropic substances. Two suspects were arrested.
The NDLEA boss added that the command secured five convictions and filed four fresh charges within the period, while 89 cases are currently pending before the Federal High Court in Benin.
On drug demand reduction, he said 13 persons received counselling and were reunited with their families, while 12 others are undergoing rehabilitation.
The command also conducted seven sensitization programs to curb drug abuse.
Ofoyeju reaffirmed the agency’s resolve to dismantle drug trafficking networks, pledging intensified operations and sustained public engagement across Edo State.
