The Edo State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has intensified its crackdown on drug trafficking, announcing the arrest of 37 suspects in June 2025 alone, including 12 women. This was revealed by the State Commander, Mr. Mitchell Ofoyeju, during a media briefing in Benin City.
The month-long operation led to the seizure of 345.421 kilograms of various narcotics, a significant haul that reflects the agency’s ongoing efforts to dismantle drug syndicates across the state.
Commander Ofoyeju disclosed that the suspects arrested consisted of 25 males and 12 females, emphasizing the growing involvement of women in the illicit drug trade. He said, “These arrests are part of a broader strategic effort to weaken the operational networks of drug traffickers and address the menace of substance abuse that is ravaging communities across Edo.”
A detailed breakdown of the seized substances includes:
- 310.485 kg of cannabis
- 0.3415 kg of psychotropic substances
- 0.3175 kg of methamphetamine
In addition to these seizures, NDLEA operatives also recovered drugs abandoned by fleeing traffickers during raids. These include:
- 33.226 kg of cannabis sativa
- 0.67 kg of psychotropic substances
- 0.373 kg of methamphetamine
- 5 litres of codeine syrup
- 0.004 kg of cocaine
As part of its operational offensive, the agency carried out large-scale eradication exercises targeting cannabis cultivation. Two illegal cannabis farms located in Okhuse Forest and Ugbada Uzebba Forest, both in Owan West Local Government Area, were destroyed. The farms covered a total of 7.27 hectares, with an estimated yield of over 18,184 kilograms of cannabis set ablaze.
The NDLEA’s prosecution unit also recorded progress during the period under review. A total of 11 cases were filed, resulting in five convictions, while 107 cases remain pending at the Federal High Court in Benin.
Ofoyeju further highlighted the command’s commitment to rehabilitation and awareness through its Drug Demand Reduction Unit, which provided counselling to 32 individuals — 18 men and 14 women — struggling with drug dependence. The unit also engaged communities with awareness programs targeted at schools, religious institutions, and social groups.
“The NDLEA Edo State Command remains resolute in its mission to end drug abuse and trafficking. We will continue to work with communities, stakeholders, and law enforcement partners to ensure a safer and drug-free society,” Ofoyeju affirmed.
The agency reiterated its appeal to the public to report suspicious activities and pledged to remain vigilant in safeguarding the state from the dangers of narcotics.
