NDLEA records 128 convictions, 559 arrests in Anambra

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Anambra State, Nigeria, has intensified its campaign against illicit drugs, reporting significant successes over the past 11 months. The command announced the arrest of 559 suspects and secured 128 convictions, underscoring a robust effort in combating drug trafficking and abuse.

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Since I came into the command about 11 months ago, we have made seizures of more than a tonne of different categories of drugs, including cocaine, methamphetamine and cannabis. In all, about 1.8 tonnes of illicit substances have been recovered, with a total of 559 suspects arrested and 128 convictions secured within the last 11 months.

During this period, the NDLEA seized a substantial quantity of illegal substances, totaling approximately 1.8 tonnes. This haul included various drugs such as cocaine, methamphetamine, and cannabis. The State Commander, Charles Onubogu, shared these figures during a press briefing in Awka, ahead of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.

Beyond enforcement, the NDLEA is actively engaged in rehabilitation efforts. Within the same 11-month timeframe, 102 individuals battling substance abuse, comprising 99 males and 3 females, have undergone rehabilitation. Many of these individuals have also been integrated into vocational skills acquisition programs, including soap making and tailoring, to aid their reintegration into society. The agency also provides counseling and intervention services to numerous drug users.

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What we are mainly after are drug dealers. People who use drugs have problems, and we need to help them. They are taken through intervention and counselling programmes to guide them on how to stay off drugs.

Onubogu emphasized the NDLEA's dual focus on disrupting drug supply chains through arrests and investigations, while also reducing demand through public sensitization and rehabilitation. He clarified that drug users are viewed as individuals requiring help and support, rather than solely as criminals. The commander stressed the importance of collaboration, stating that the fight against drug abuse requires a collective effort from the media, civil society organizations, and the public.

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The fight against drug abuse and trafficking can’t be left to the NDLEA alone. All hands must be on deck to battle the scourge.