Edo NDLEA seizes over 7.5 tons of drugs, arrests 68 in August crackdown
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According to NDLEA drugs seized and removed from circulation include: 7,524.83 kg of Cannabis sativa, 1,098.177 kg recovered, 6,433.33kg destroyed on farms, 5.3311 kg of psychotropic substances, 0.0668 kg of methamphetamine, 34.8 litres of codeine syrup.
By Jethro Ibileke
Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Edo State Command, have arrested 68 suspected drug traffickers in the month of August 2026.
They also intercepted 7,531.51kg of narcotics across the state during the same period.
The Commander of NDLEA in Edo State, Mitchell Ofoyeju, gave the breakdown in a statement issued in Benin.
He noted that the figures show the Command’s “unwavering commitment” to tackling drug trafficking and abuse in Edo.
Ofoyeju who disclosed that the suspects comprise 34 males and 34 females, noted that the gender balance further authenticates the fact that substance use has no respect for sex.”
According to the statement, drugs seized and removed from circulation include: 7,524.83 kg of Cannabis sativa, 1,098.177 kg recovered, 6,433.33kg destroyed on farms, 5.3311 kg of psychotropic substances, 0.0668 kg of methamphetamine, 34.8 litres of codeine syrup.
Four cannabis farms were destroyed in Orhionmwon and Owan West.
Ofoyeju said no convictions were recorded in August because the Federal High Court was on vacation, but three new cases were filed and 87 cases are pending.
Beyond enforcement, the Command’s CTR and PS units counselled 23 clients and trained 12 persons in vocational skills including tailoring, perfume making, and liquid soap production.
It also carried out five sensitisation programmes that reached over 2,150 participants.
“We will continue to collaborate with community leaders, media organisations, and law enforcement partners to ensure the safety and health of our citizens.
“We are unwavering in our commitment to flushing out drugs and apprehending those who profit from the suffering of others,” Ofoyeju said.