Edo NDLEA intercepts 748kg of illicit drugs, arrests two suspects

The Edo State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has once again demonstrated its unwavering commitment to ridding our communities of the scourge of illicit drugs. The recent interception of a staggering 748.02 kilograms of controlled pharmaceutical substances, including potent opioids like tramadol, is a significant victory in this ongoing battle.

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On Thursday, April 23, 2026, the command’s ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking culminated in the interception of a Mercedes-Benz truck branded with the Nigeria Labour Congress insignia and bearing the registration number Federal Capital Territory NLC 146 FC.

Commander Mitchell Ofoyeju's statement highlights the meticulous work of the NDLEA operatives. The apprehension of a Mercedes-Benz truck, emblazoned with the Nigeria Labour Congress insignia, en route from Lagos to Onitsha, underscores the sophisticated methods employed by drug cartels. The sheer volume of capsules and tablets seized – over 1.196 million – is alarming and points to a widespread distribution network that poses a grave threat to our youth and society.

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The truck was found with 95 cartons containing 1.196 million capsules and tablets of psychotropic substances en route from Lagos to Onitsha, Anambra State.

This operation is a clear testament to the NDLEA's proactive stance, aligning with the directive of Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (retd.), to disrupt interstate drug trafficking. The agency's vigilance in combating these networks is crucial for safeguarding public health and safety. The commander's concern about the potential impact of these drugs, linked to addiction, health emergencies, and fatalities, resonates deeply within our communities.

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The intercepted truck was found to be transporting a total of 748.02 kilograms of controlled substances.

As the investigation into the two apprehended suspects, Osagie Igbinibo and Omijie Malik, continues, the NDLEA assures the public that justice will be served. This seizure sends a clear message to traffickers: the long arm of the law will inevitably catch up with them. The NDLEA's call for public cooperation in reporting suspicious activities further strengthens the collective effort needed to eradicate drug abuse in Nigeria.

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The trafficking of high volumes of controlled drugs, particularly potent opioids like tramadol, poses a dire threat to our youth and society at large.