Nigeria Seizes Over 7 Tonnes of Cannabis, Arrests Five Suspects

In a significant operation, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Edo State has successfully intercepted two trucks laden with over 7.2 tonnes of suspected cannabis. This large-scale seizure, made along the Auchi-Abuja highway, represents a major victory in the ongoing war against illicit drugs in Nigeria. The agency's state Commander, Mitchell Ofoyeju, highlighted the operation as a substantial blow to interstate drug trafficking networks, emphasizing that this is the first time the command has intercepted two such large consignments simultaneously.

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The scale of this seizure (over seven metric tonnes) with a street value of N724 million, highlights the magnitude of the command’s effectiveness and its intelligence-driven operations.

The intercepted trucks were cleverly disguised, carrying the illicit substances concealed within what appeared to be beer cartons. This tactic underscores the lengths to which drug traffickers will go to evade law enforcement. The operation, which followed 72 hours of intensive surveillance and intelligence gathering, demonstrates the NDLEA's commitment to intelligence-driven strategies in combating drug-related crime. The street value of the seized cannabis is estimated at N724 million, indicating the immense scale of the operation and the potential harm averted.

Five suspected traffickers were apprehended in connection with the seizure. The NDLEA views this success as a clear message to drug barons that Edo State is not a safe haven for their criminal activities. The agency reiterated its mandate to dismantle drug trafficking networks, seize illicit substances, and prosecute offenders. Investigations are ongoing to uncover the full extent of the network involved, and the trucks used in the haulage will be confiscated.

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This seizure has prevented a massive quantity of illicit drugs from reaching our streets and destroying lives, particularly among young people.

This operation aligns with the NDLEA's broader efforts to protect the Nigerian populace, particularly the youth, from the devastating effects of drug abuse. The agency urged the public to continue providing credible information to support its crackdown on drug trafficking across the state, emphasizing the importance of community cooperation in maintaining a drug-free society.

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The successful interception of these suspected illicit drug trucks is a clear message to drug barons that Edo is not a safe haven for drug cartels.