Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency have uncovered one of the most significant cannabis trafficking operations in recent months, intercepting two trucks loaded with illicit drugs valued at over N724 million in Edo State and arresting five suspects linked to the shipment.
The large-scale seizure, which was publicly announced on April 13, 2026, involved a total of 7,245 kilograms of cannabis, commonly referred to as skunk. The drugs were packaged in 483 bags and concealed inside two articulated trucks typically used for transporting alcoholic beverages, a tactic authorities say reflects the evolving sophistication of trafficking networks.
Speaking in Benin City, the Edo State Commander of the NDLEA, Mitchell Ofoyeju, described the operation as a major operational breakthrough, noting that it marked the first time in the command’s history that two fully loaded trucks carrying illicit drugs were intercepted in a single coordinated action.
According to the agency, the first truck carried 260 bags of cannabis weighing approximately 3,900 kilograms, while the second truck contained 223 bags weighing about 3,345 kilograms. Together, the combined haul totaled 7,245 kilograms, with an estimated street value of N724.5 million.
Five suspects were arrested in connection with the operation. They were identified as Ibrahim Abu, Abu Abdullazeez, Jibril Jaminu, Andrew Moses, and Ganiyu Abu. All five suspects are male and are reported to be from Etsako East and Etsako West Local Government Areas of Edo State.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the illicit consignment originated from Sabongida-Ora in Owan West Local Government Area. The shipment was reportedly destined for Abuja in the Federal Capital Territory, with the likelihood of further distribution across parts of the North-Central region before its interception.
Authorities emphasized that the scale of the seizure underscores the growing complexity and reach of drug trafficking operations within Nigeria. By disguising the cannabis within trucks transporting legitimate goods, traffickers attempted to bypass routine security checks along major transport corridors. However, NDLEA officials said intelligence-led surveillance enabled operatives to identify and intercept the vehicles before they could complete their journey.
Ofoyeju noted that the successful operation dealt a significant blow to an interstate drug trafficking network, potentially preventing the widespread distribution of the seized cannabis. He stressed that the large quantity of drugs could have had serious social and public health consequences if allowed to circulate.
The intercepted trucks and recovered drugs have since been moved to NDLEA custody in Benin City for documentation and further analysis. Authorities confirmed that the vehicles used in transporting the illicit substances would be confiscated in accordance with Nigeria’s drug enforcement laws.
The agency has also launched a wider investigation aimed at identifying other individuals and networks connected to the operation. Officials say efforts are ongoing to trace the supply chain, including possible financiers and distribution channels that may extend beyond Edo State.
The latest seizure comes amid intensified anti-drug operations in Edo State, which has increasingly been identified as a critical hub in Nigeria’s illicit drug trade due to its strategic location and extensive road networks linking different regions of the country.
Recent enforcement activities in the state have recorded multiple seizures and arrests, reflecting what officials describe as a sustained effort to dismantle organized drug trafficking networks. The NDLEA has continued to rely on intelligence gathering, surveillance, and coordinated field operations to intercept large consignments before they reach their intended destinations.
Beyond enforcement, the agency continues to emphasize prevention through public awareness campaigns and rehabilitation programmes for individuals affected by substance abuse. Officials maintain that reducing demand is as important as disrupting supply in addressing the broader drug problem.
Legal proceedings are expected to follow as the arrested suspects face prosecution under Nigeria’s drug control laws, which carry severe penalties for trafficking and possession of large quantities of illicit substances. The outcome of the case is expected to provide further insight into the network behind the intercepted consignment.
For residents of Edo State and beyond, the operation highlights both the scale of drug trafficking activities and the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to combat them. While the seizure represents a significant disruption to one network, authorities acknowledge that sustained vigilance and public cooperation remain essential in addressing the wider challenge.
As investigations continue, the NDLEA has reaffirmed its commitment to intensifying operations nationwide, targeting traffickers and ensuring that Nigeria’s transport systems are not exploited for the movement of illicit drugs. The agency has also urged members of the public to remain alert and report suspicious activities to support ongoing enforcement efforts.
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