NDLEA Edo State Command seizes N1.8bn worth of drugs, arrests 104 suspects, and secures 36 convictions in major first-quarter operation

The Edo State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, has announced the seizure of illicit drugs valued at N1.8 billion in a sweeping first-quarter enforcement operation across the state.

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National Drug Law Enforcement Agency disclosed that a total of 18,380 kilogrammes of narcotics were recovered from 104 suspected drug traffickers during coordinated intelligence-led raids.

The State Commander, Mitchell Ofoyeju, revealed the figures while presenting the command’s operational scorecard in Benin City, noting that the arrests included 71 males and 33 females.

He explained that the recovered substances included cannabis, psychotropic drugs, methamphetamine, cocaine, heroin, and codeine-based cough syrup, with cannabis accounting for the largest share of the seizures.

Ofoyeju further stated that 36 convictions were secured at the Federal High Court in Benin City, strengthening ongoing efforts to dismantle drug trafficking networks across the state.

He described the operations as part of a broader strategy combining enforcement with rehabilitation, noting that 28 drug-dependent individuals were treated while 66 others received counselling support.

The commander also highlighted the command’s public sensitisation drive, which included 26 awareness programmes aimed at educating residents on the dangers of drug abuse.

In addition, the agency recognised 10 officers, four journalists, and a legal practitioner for outstanding contributions to anti-narcotics efforts, describing the recognition as part of its motivation framework under the leadership of NDLEA Chairman Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa.

The event also marked the launch of the command’s maiden magazine, designed to document operations and strengthen public engagement in the fight against drug abuse.

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Authorities say the crackdown reflects a sustained and coordinated effort to curb narcotics trafficking and promote a safer society in Edo State.