The Edo State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has reported the arrest of 44 suspected drug traffickers and the seizure of 2,059.83 kilograms of illegal substances in November.
The state commander of the agency, Mitchell Ofoyeju, disclosed in a statement on Thursday that the suspects include 21 men and 23 women, highlighting a worrying rise in female involvement in drug trafficking.
“The Edo State Command of the NDLEA has arrested 44 suspected drug traffickers with 2,059.83 kg of illicit drugs in the month of November,” Ofoyeju said.
The haul comprises 2,058.79 kg of cannabis, 0.3167 kg of tramadol, 0.3197 kg of methamphetamine, 0.0463 kg of heroin, 0.0039 kg of cocaine, 0.008 kg of codeine-based syrup, 0.6 litres of flunitrazepam, 0.0032 kg of diazepam, 0.0446 kg of swinol, and 0.0082 kg of danabol (molly).
During operations, NDLEA officers also discovered and destroyed a cannabis farm measuring 0.583898 hectares in Igbeshi Forest, Imiakebo, Etsako West Local Government Area, with an estimated yield of 1,459.745 kg.
Ofoyeju said intelligence-led operations had been intensified to ensure a peaceful and secure yuletide season for Edo residents.
He warned drug trafficking cartels in the state to immediately cease their activities or face severe consequences.
“Our operations send a clear message to those involved in the drug trade: desist now or face the full might of the law,” he stated.
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The commander further revealed that 17 convictions were secured in November, while 126 cases remain pending before the Federal High Court in Benin City.
In addition, the agency’s drug demand reduction unit counselled 21 clients during the period and continues to implement rehabilitation and sensitisation programs to curb drug abuse.
Ofoyeju acknowledged the operational challenges posed by difficult terrains used for cannabis cultivation and called for improved logistical support to reach dense forest areas and eradicate illicit plantations.
He also appealed to the public to provide credible information on drug-related activities in their communities to help the NDLEA combat trafficking effectively.