The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has intensified its crackdown on drug trafficking in Edo State, arresting 54 suspected dealers and traffickers while seizing over 1,506.57 kilograms of various illicit substances in a series of coordinated operations across the state.
The agency’s spokesperson, Femi Babafemi, disclosed this in a statement on Monday, noting that the arrests and seizures were part of ongoing efforts by the NDLEA to rid the country of narcotics and dismantle criminal networks involved in drug distribution.
According to Babafemi, the suspects were apprehended in multiple raids carried out in Benin City, Auchi, and other parts of the state between September and early October. The confiscated drugs included cannabis sativa, methamphetamine, tramadol, cocaine, and other psychotropic substances.
“The Edo State Command of the NDLEA recorded significant progress in the fight against drug abuse and trafficking with the arrest of 54 suspects and the seizure of 1,506.57 kilograms of illicit drugs. The operation was part of our renewed drive to curb the spread of narcotics in communities,” Babafemi stated.
He explained that some of the suspects were major suppliers who had been under surveillance for weeks before their eventual arrest. Others were small-scale dealers caught in possession of prohibited drugs intended for street-level distribution.
We are determined to dismantle the entire supply chain — from the major traffickers to the street-level pushers. The NDLEA will not relent until we have a drug-free Edo State,” he added.
The agency also reported the destruction of several illegal cannabis farms discovered in remote areas of the state. NDLEA operatives, working with local security forces, conducted combing operations in forests around Owan West, Uhunmwonde, and Orhionmwon Local Government Areas, leading to the destruction of vast farmlands where cannabis was being cultivated.
Meanwhile, the Edo State Commander of NDLEA, Mr. Buba Wakawa, commended officers for their diligence and bravery during the operations. He also called on residents to provide timely information about suspicious activities related to drug trafficking in their communities.
We cannot win this war alone. The public must work with us by reporting drug dealers and traffickers. Together, we can protect our youths from the destructive effects of drug abuse,” Wakawa said.
The NDLEA reaffirmed its commitment to rehabilitation and public education, emphasizing that beyond arrests and seizures, the agency remains focused on prevention through advocacy campaigns, counseling, and community engagement
Our ultimate goal is not just to arrest offenders but to create awareness that saves lives. We will continue to educate young people about the dangers of drug use,” Babafemi concluded.
The latest operation underscores the NDLEA’s determination under the leadership of Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Retd.) to strengthen enforcement and reduce the availability of illicit substances nationwide.