NDLEA vows 'all-out war' on drugs in Enugu

The new commander of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Enugu State, Paul Audu, has declared an "all-out war" against drug trafficking and substance abuse. During his first press briefing in Enugu, Audu announced a more aggressive strategy to combat drug-related crimes.

The agency will focus not only on arrests and convictions but also on enforcing the Proceeds of Crime Recovery and Management Act to confiscate assets acquired through drug trafficking. Audu believes that depriving traffickers of their wealth will serve as a strong deterrent. He plans to use his experience in tracing and confiscating proceeds of crime to dismantle the financial networks supporting drug syndicates.

“

I have come to fight drugs, and there will be no room for compromise. If anyone has information about any of my officers engaging in shady deals, report directly to me, and appropriate action will be taken.

Audu also announced plans to strengthen the War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) campaign. This will involve taking drug abuse prevention and sensitization programs to communities, targeting drug users and vulnerable youths. He warned offenders to abandon the illicit trade or face arrest, prosecution, and asset forfeiture.

“

Depriving them of such assets would serve as a strong deterrent.

The commander described drug abuse as a significant threat to the nation's youth, public safety, and socio-economic development. He emphasized the media's role as a critical partner in public enlightenment and information dissemination. Audu appealed to journalists and the public to provide credible information on suspected drug-related activities, assuring prompt responses to intelligence reports.

Furthermore, Audu warned patent medicine vendors against stocking or selling controlled substances illegally. He clarified that even licensed pharmacies can only dispense controlled medications with valid prescriptions. The NDLEA Enugu Command maintains a zero-tolerance stance on corruption, with any officer found colluding with traffickers facing disciplinary action. Audu has begun consultations with traditional rulers and emphasized the vital role of traditional institutions, local government authorities, and community leaders in grassroots sensitization and intelligence gathering.

“

drug abuse as a major threat to the nation’s youth, public safety and socio-economic development.