By Christopher Oji
The Edo State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has apprehended 37 suspected drug traffickers in the month of June 2025.
The state Commander, Mitchell Ofoyeju showcased the operational scorecard and diligent efforts in the fight against drug trafficking and abuse in Benin City. The command’s routine operations also led to the seizure of 345.421 kilograms of narcotic drugs.
“During the reporting period, narcotic officials apprehended 37 suspects, comprising 25 males and 12 females. These arrests are part of a broader strategy aimed at dismantling drug trafficking networks and addressing the concern of substance abuse within the community,” Ofoyeju stated.
He gave the breakdown of the seized drugs as :310.485 kg of cannabis, 0.3415 kg of psychotropic substances, and 0.3175 kg of methamphetamine. Additionally, authorities seized 33.226 kg of cannabis sativa, 0.67 kg of psychotropic substances, 0.373 kg of methamphetamine, 5 litres of codeine syrup, and 0.004 kg of cocaine, which were abandoned.
“In a bid to further disrupt the drug trade, the command undertook the destruction of illegal cannabis farms measuring 7.2738851 hectares with an estimated yield of 18,184.7128 kg, were razed in two locations, Okhuse forest and Ugbada Uzebba forest all in the Owan West Local Government of the State.
“The prosecution unit of the command reported judicial progress, with 11 cases charged during June, with five convictions. A total of 107 cases are pending at the Federal High Court in Benin City.
“Recognising the importance of community engagement, the Drug Demand Reduction Unit of the command provided counselling to 32 clients, comprised of 18 males and 14 females. The unit also conducted a series of awareness programmes across various organisations. Noteworthy was a two-day sensitisation workshop at the Edo state Ministry of Public Safety with 122 attendees, a session at Idogbo Mosque attracting 557 attendees, and a large gathering at the Living Faith Church, Egba 1, which drew in 760 participants. The observance of World Drug Day on June 26 also saw an impressive turnout of individuals at the Festival Hall, Edo State Government House, Benin City.
Ofoyeju stressed that the NDLEA Edo state command remains steadfast in its mission to combat drug trafficking and abuse, emphasising its commitment to dismantling drug cartels through continued vigilance and community involvement.