Nigeria: 604kg of cannabis seized, manhunt launched for drug kingpin
Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Nigerian authorities seized 604.5 kg of cannabis and are hunting a suspected drug kingpin in Edo State.
- The operation, a collaboration between the NDLEA and the Nigerian Army, recovered 65 bags of cannabis.
- Nine suspected drug peddlers were also arrested in separate operations across the state, with various illicit substances seized.
In a significant operation against drug trafficking, Nigeria's National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), in collaboration with the Nigerian Army, has seized 604.5 kilograms of cannabis in Edo State. The joint forces also launched a manhunt for a suspected drug kingpin operating in the Owan West Local Government Area.
He has nowhere to hide because we will certainly apprehend him.
The operation took place on August 5 in Ewe Luleha, identified as a suspected drug hub. Operatives recovered 65 bags of dried cannabis, commonly known as skunk. The suspected kingpin, identified only as Sunday, reportedly fled the scene during the operation. NDLEA State Commander Mitchell Ofoyeju stated, "He has nowhere to hide because we will certainly apprehend him."
This seizure is part of the agency's intensified efforts to dismantle drug trafficking networks throughout Edo State. In addition to the large cannabis haul, nine suspected drug peddlers were apprehended in separate raids conducted at various drug hotspots within the state. The arrested individuals include five males and four females, who were found in possession of cannabis, loud, Colorado, methamphetamine, and tramadol.
These arrests and drug seizures not only highlight law enforcement efforts but also signify the increasing need for community involvement in reporting illicit activities.
Ofoyeju urged residents to support the NDLEA by providing credible information to help apprehend fleeing suspects and dismantle drug trafficking networks. "These arrests and drug seizures not only highlight law enforcement efforts but also signify the increasing need for community involvement in reporting illicit activities," he said. The NDLEA assured that investigations are ongoing and suspects will face prosecution.
I urge members of the public to provide any information that may lead to the apprehension of the fleeing suspects and to support ongoing efforts to combat drug abuse and trafficking in Edo State.
Originally published by Premium Times in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.