NDLEA Arrests 48 Traffickers in Edo, Recovers 541.47kg of Drugs

The Edo State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency has arrested 48 suspected drug traffickers and recovered 541.47 kilogrammes of illicit drugs during operations conducted across the state in May.

The State Commander, Mitchell Ofoyeju, disclosed this in a statement issued on Tuesday, describing the arrests and seizures as part of the agency’s ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking and substance abuse.

According to the command, those arrested comprised 25 males and 23 females apprehended during intelligence-led operations carried out at various drug hotspots across Edo State.

A breakdown of the seizures showed that cannabis sativa accounted for the largest share, with 540.6253 kilogrammes recovered. Other substances seized included 0.2701 kilogrammes of psychotropic drugs such as tramadol, Swinol, diazepam, and Rohypnol, as well as 0.1415 kilogrammes of methamphetamine and 1.4 litres of codeine syrup.

The command revealed that one of the largest seizures was made from a suspect identified as Lucky Omen, who was found with a bag containing 27.3 kilogrammes of cannabis sativa. Other suspects arrested included Joseph Osin, Prince Aniete, and Esther Okes, who were allegedly found with varying quantities of cannabis and other prohibited substances.

In a separate operation, NDLEA operatives raided drug dens in Auchi, located in Etsako West Local Government Area, leading to the arrest of Abdulmalik Sunday and Abayomi Precious. Officers reportedly recovered Loud, Colorado, tramadol, Swinol, Rohypnol, and methamphetamine from the suspects.

The agency also recorded progress in prosecution efforts. According to Ofoyeju, three suspects were convicted during the period under review, while five new cases were filed in court. He added that 94 drug-related cases are currently pending before the Federal High Court in Benin City.

Beyond enforcement activities, the command said it intensified drug demand reduction initiatives. Thirty-one individuals received counselling services and were reunited with their families, while eight others are undergoing rehabilitation.

The command also conducted five anti-drug sensitisation programmes across the state. Ofoyeju commended officers for their professionalism and urged residents to continue supporting the agency with credible information to help curb drug trafficking and abuse in Edo State.