Nigeria's NDLEA targets drug cartels' financial empires

Nigeria's National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) is intensifying its efforts to cripple drug cartels by targeting their financial empires, a strategy that goes beyond traditional arrests. Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Mohamed Buba Marwa stated that the agency is actively pursuing asset forfeiture through civil action in rem instruments, effectively cutting off the financial lifeblood of these criminal networks.

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We are not just arresting traffickers; we are liquidating their financial empires.

Marwa, represented by NDLEA Secretary Shadrach Haruna, explained that the agency's legal department has achieved high conviction rates, bolstered by the Proceeds of Crime Act. This legislation empowers the NDLEA to pursue the financial interests of drug barons more effectively, even beyond criminal prosecution. The agency's "offensive action" against drug cartels, initiated in January 2021, has reportedly maintained relentless momentum, leading to the arrest and successful prosecution of major figures.

To mark World Drug Day, the NDLEA has organized a week of activities. These include a "Walk Against Drugs" in collaboration with universities and the MTN Foundation, a Thanksgiving Church Service, the final round of a national essay competition themed "Say No to Drug: Building a Healthy and Responsible Generation," and a designated NGO Day to honor civil society partners. The agency will also conduct a "Youth Out of School Programme" in markets and motor parks to deliver anti-drug messaging.

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Through the civil action in rem instrumentalities, assets reasonably suspected to be proceeds of drug crimes are aggressively targeted and forfeited to the Federal Government, effectively cutting off the lifeblood of these criminal networks.

The week culminates in a Grand Finale on Friday, June 26, at the State House Conference Centre in Abuja. This event will bring together government officials, the diplomatic community, and international stakeholders to unveil new policy frameworks aimed at combating modern drug trafficking challenges.

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