The Edo State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has arrested an 18-year-old Nigerien national, Mohammed Isah, for unlawful possession of illicit drugs.
State Commander Mitchell Ofoyefu made this known on Monday during the presentation of his first monthly operational report in Benin City.
According to Ofoyefu, Isah was apprehended during a raid in the Oluku area of the city. He was found in possession of methamphetamine (4 grams), cannabis sativa (54 grams), tramadol 100mg (6 grams), and Exol-5 (28 grams).
In a separate operation, two other suspects—33-year-old Isaac Israel from Abak LGA in Akwa Ibom State, and 19-year-old Precious Zion, a female from Ogba LGA in Rivers State—were arrested in connection with the seizure of 74.5 bags of cannabis sativa weighing a total of 1,115kg. The bust was carried out in the Oke community of Uhunmwonde Local Government Area following an intelligence tip-off.
Commander Ofoyefu highlighted the strong link between drug trafficking and violent crimes, stressing that drug control plays a crucial role in the administration’s efforts to curb kidnapping and cultism in Edo State.
“The negative impact of drug trafficking on local economies, investment, and the rising costs of law enforcement and healthcare can be significantly reduced through proactive control strategies,” he said.
He added that while the challenges remain daunting, the NDLEA is committed to tackling drug-related crimes and safeguarding the youth from addiction and exploitation.
Ofoyefu also emphasized the importance of community involvement, urging residents to support the agency’s efforts. He called for coordinated action, enhanced strategies, and better resource allocation to combat the growing threat of drug abuse and trafficking in the state.
