NDLEA arrests 29 suspects, seizes 10,359kg of drugs in Edo

The Edo State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has reported significant operational successes in its ongoing war against illicit drugs, apprehending 29 suspects and confiscating a staggering 10,359kg of narcotics throughout April. This substantial haul, detailed in a statement by State Commander Mitchell Ofoyeju, underscores the persistent challenge of drug trafficking and substance abuse within the region.

“

The Edo State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency has arrested 29 suspects with 10,359kg of illicit drugs in the month of April.

The seized substances encompass a wide array of illicit materials, with cannabis accounting for the largest portion at 9,611.69kg. Other significant seizures include psychotropic substances (748.02kg), tramadol (444kg), rohypnol (25.2kg), diazepam injection (242.82kg), bromazepam (36kg), and codeine syrup (20.2 litres). The report highlights specific interdictions, such as the interception of two trucks carrying over 7,245kg of cannabis concealed among alcoholic beverages, and another truck branded with the Nigeria Labour Congress logo found to contain 748.02kg of tramadol and other psychotropic substances.

Beyond seizures and arrests, the NDLEA's efforts in Edo State also involve judicial processes and community engagement. Within April, the command's prosecution unit achieved five convictions and initiated four new charges, with 89 cases still pending at the Federal High Court. Furthermore, the agency provided counseling services to 13 individuals and continued rehabilitation programs for 12 others, alongside conducting seven sensitization programs to educate the public on the dangers of drug abuse.

“

Some of the spectacular seizures include the interception of two articulated trucks laden with cannabis on April 11, 2026. Both trucks were found to be conveying 483 sacks of skunk cannabis weighing 7,245kg, concealed among packs of alcoholic beverages. They reportedly left Sabongida-Ora heading to the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, when they were intercepted along Auchi-Abuja Road. Five suspected drug traffickers were arrested with both trucks.

Commander Ofoyeju reiterated the NDLEA's commitment to dismantling drug cartels and vowed to intensify operations and community engagement. The agency's work in Edo State, as covered by The Punch, demonstrates a multi-pronged approach to combating the drug menace, involving law enforcement, legal action, and public health initiatives, all aimed at ridding the state of illicit substances.

“

Similarly, on April 22, another truck branded Nigeria Labour Congress conveying tramadol and other psychotropic substances was flagged down along the Lagos-Benin Road. Upon search, it was found to contain various substances weighing 748.02kg. Two suspects were apprehended in connection with the seizure.