NDLEA arrests 68 suspects, seizes 7,500kg of drugs in Edo

In August 2026, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Edo State managed to arrest 68 suspected drug traffickers and recover more than 7,500 kilograms of narcotics across the state. The Edo State Command commander, Mitchell Ofoyeju, revealed these figures in a statement issued in Benin City, describing the activities of the NDLEA during that month.

Ofoyeju emphasized that the arrests and seizures were a testament to the agency's dedication to tackling illicit drug trafficking and substance abuse in Edo State. He noted that the 68 suspects were evenly split between males and females, highlighting that drug-related issues affect people regardless of gender. The seized substances amounted to 7,524.83 kilograms of Cannabis sativa, of which 1,098.177 kilograms were recovered and the rest destroyed at cannabis farms.

Additionally, 5.3311 kilograms of psychotropic substances, 0.0668 kilograms of methamphetamine, and 34.8 liters of codeine syrup were seized. Four cannabis farms were destroyed in Orhionmwon and Owan West Local Government Areas. Ofoyeju explained that no convictions were secured during the month due to the Federal High Court being on vacation.

Nevertheless, three new cases were filed, and 87 cases remained pending before the court. Apart from arrests and seizures, the NDLEA's Counselling, Treatment and Rehabilitation (CTR) and Psychological Services (PS) units provided counseling to 23 individuals. They also trained 12 people in vocational skills, such as tailoring, perfume production, and liquid soap making.

The agency conducted five awareness programs that reached over 2,150 participants, aiming to educate the public about the dangers of illicit drug use. Ofoyeju concluded by stating that the NDLEA would continue to work with stakeholders to address drug-related issues in the state. He pledged unwavering commitment to eliminating drugs and apprehending those responsible for the suffering of others.