The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has intensified its crackdown on drug-related activities in Edo State, arresting 48 suspected traffickers and recovering a total of 541.47 kilogrammes of illicit drugs in May 2026.
This was disclosed by the Edo State Commander of the agency, Mitchell Ofoyeju, who revealed that the arrests were carried out through intelligence-led operations across major drug hotspots in the state.
According to him, the suspects include 25 males and 23 females apprehended in separate operations.
A breakdown of the seizures showed that cannabis sativa dominated the haul with 540.6253kg recovered.
Other substances seized include psychotropic drugs such as tramadol, Swinol, diazepam, and Rohypnol weighing 0.2701kg, methamphetamine weighing 0.1415kg, and 1.4 litres of codeine syrup.
Ofoyeju further disclosed that the agency secured three convictions within the period, filed five new cases, and currently has 94 drug-related cases pending before the Federal High Court in Benin City.
Related News:
NDLEA Arrests Four Suspects, Destroys Cannabis Farms in Edo Raids
NDLEA Seizes 1,378kg of Cannabis, Arrests Suspect in Edo Raid
Edo NDLEA Rearrests Drug Suspect After Wife Declares Him Dead In Court Affidavit
NDLEA Arrests Doctor, Ivorian Over Cocaine Trafficking
Among notable arrests, a suspect identified as Lucky Omen was found with 27.3kg of cannabis, while others were apprehended with varying quantities of drugs during coordinated raids in areas including Auchi in Etsako West Local Government Area.
Beyond enforcement, the NDLEA also intensified its drug demand reduction efforts.
The command reportedly counselled 31 individuals struggling with substance abuse and successfully reunited them with their families, while eight others are undergoing rehabilitation.
The agency also conducted five sensitisation programmes, including the Benin City Teens and Youth Invasion initiative aimed at educating young people on the dangers of drug abuse.
Commending his officers for their dedication, Ofoyeju reaffirmed the command’s commitment to ridding Edo State of illicit drugs, warning traffickers that the state will not serve as a safe haven for illegal activities.
He also called on the public to support the agency by providing credible information to aid ongoing efforts in combating drug trafficking and substance abuse.
About the Author
