The Edo State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has announced the seizure of illicit drugs valued at ₦777 million over the past six months.
The state commander, Mitchell Ofoyeju, made the disclosure during a press briefing in Benin City ahead of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
Ofoyeju revealed that 209 suspects, including 129 males and 80 females, were arrested during the period.
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Among them is a 300-level student of Ambrose Alli University, who reportedly resorted to drug trafficking to repay a loan obtained from a microfinance bank.
“Her arrest is a strong warning to drug barons that, notwithstanding the disguise, they will be smoked out,” he stated.
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According to Ofoyeju, the command seized 2,538kg of cannabis and destroyed over 20 hectares of cannabis farms, bringing the total haul to over 53,000kg.
Other substances recovered include cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, codeine syrup, psychotropic drugs, Pentazocine ampoules, and cookies laced with cannabis.
“In total, we seized drugs worth ₦770 million, which would have been used to fund criminal activities,” Ofoyeju said, stressing the NDLEA’s commitment to dismantling drug networks.
He added that 24 convictions had been secured so far, while 110 cases are currently pending in court. As part of rehabilitation efforts, 194 clients received intervention, and 19 persons underwent full rehabilitation.
Ofoyeju commended Senator Monday Okpebholo for backing the war on drugs and appealed for public cooperation.
“These enemies of the state can run but cannot hide. We will catch them, seize their drugs, trace their illicit wealth for confiscation, and prosecute them,” he declared.
He also appreciated the media and stakeholders for their “priceless support” in raising awareness and combating drug abuse in Edo State.
