Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, Edo State Command, has delivered a devastating blow to the network of drug cartels operating in the state, arresting 68 suspected drug traffickers and seizing a staggering 7,531.51 kilogrammes of narcotic substances in the month of August 2026. The Commander of Narcotics in Edo State, Mitchell Ofoyeju, who disclosed the command's August scorecard, described the haul as a reflection of the agency's unwavering commitment to its mission of combating drug trafficking and substance abuse across the state. Ofoyeju stated that the 68 suspects comprised 34 males and 34 females, a gender balance that he said authenticated the fact that substance use has no respect for sex.
The breakdown of the seizures reveals the scale of the illicit drug trade in Edo State. The NDLEA seized 7,524.83 kilogrammes of Cannabis sativa, which included 1,098.177 kilogrammes directly confiscated from suspects, while a further 6,433.33 kilogrammes of cannabis were destroyed in plantations. In addition to cannabis, the agency recovered 5.3311 kilogrammes of psychotropic substances, 0.0668 kilogrammes of methamphetamine, and 34.8 litres of codeine syrup, marking a significant blow to drug distribution networks across the state. The operations, which were intelligence-led, were carried out across several local government areas, showcasing the NDLEA's determination to root out drug cartels from the state.
In a concerted effort to tackle drug cultivation at its source, enforcement officers identified and destroyed four cannabis farms across the state. The farms were located in Orhionmwon and Owan West Local Government Areas, with the total size of the farms measuring 2.573331 hectares and an estimated yield of 6,433.33 kilogrammes of cannabis. Ofoyeju noted that the Federal High Court was on vacation during the period, which meant no convictions were recorded, but three new cases were charged, while 87 others remained pending before the court. The command has broadened its community outreach initiatives, with its Counselling and Treatment Rehabilitation Unit and Prevention Sensitisation Unit providing counselling to 23 clients and enrolling 12 individuals in vocational training programmes, including tailoring, perfume-making and liquid soap production. As part of its commitment to prevention and education, the command conducted five sensitisation programmes attended by more than 2,150 participants.
Ofoyeju expressed the command's resolve to intensify its efforts to combat drug trafficking in Edo State. "We are unwavering in our commitment to tackling the drug problem in Edo State. Our recent operations showcase our dedication to flushing out drugs from our communities and apprehending those who wish to profit from the suffering of others," he said. "We will continue to collaborate with community leaders, media organisations and law enforcement partners to ensure the safety and health of our citizens," he added. The latest operation adds to the agency's ongoing efforts to remove illegal drugs from communities and arrest people involved in the drug trade, sending a clear message that the NDLEA will not relent in its fight against drug trafficking and substance abuse across Edo State.
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