NDLEA Edo drug seizures hit over 10,000kg as 29 suspects arrested, with major busts and convictions recorded in April operations

The Edo State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency has recorded a sweeping crackdown, arresting 29 suspects and seizing more than 10,359kg of illicit drugs in April.

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State Commander Mitchell Ofoyeju disclosed the figures in a statement on Wednesday, describing the period as marked by decisive and high-impact operations against drug trafficking networks.

The NDLEA Edo drug seizures involved 19 male and 10 female suspects, apprehended during targeted raids on known drug hotspots and routine patrols across the state.

According to Ofoyeju, the confiscated substances included 9,611.69kg of cannabis, 748.02kg of psychotropic drugs, 444kg of tramadol, 25.2kg of rohypnol, 242.82kg of diazepam injections, 36kg of bromazepam and 20.2 litres of codeine syrup.

Among the most notable operations was the interception of two articulated trucks on April 11 along the Auchi-Abuja Road.

The vehicles were found carrying 483 sacks of skunk cannabis weighing 7,245kg, concealed among alcoholic beverages, with five suspects arrested.

In a separate operation on April 22, officers flagged down another truck along the Lagos-Benin Road.

The vehicle, branded with the Nigeria Labour Congress insignia, was discovered to be transporting tramadol and other psychotropic substances weighing 748.02kg, leading to the arrest of two suspects.

Beyond arrests and seizures, the command reported progress in prosecutions, securing five convictions and filing four new cases within the month. Ofoyeju added that 89 drug-related cases are currently pending before the Federal High Court in Benin City.

The agency also expanded its rehabilitation and prevention efforts, providing counselling to 13 individuals and continuing treatment programmes for 12 others.

Seven sensitisation campaigns were conducted to raise awareness about the dangers of substance abuse.

Ofoyeju reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to dismantling drug trafficking cartels in Edo State and intensifying community engagement. He also commended the NDLEA Chairman, Buba Marwa, for sustained support in strengthening operations.

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The NDLEA Edo drug seizures highlight a determined and escalating effort by authorities to curb narcotics trafficking and reduce the impact of drug abuse across the state.