The Edo State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has arrested an 18-year-old Nigerien, Mohammed Isah, and two other suspects for unlawful possession of illicit drugs in separate operations across the state.
State Commander Mitchell Ofoyefu disclosed this on Monday during the presentation of his first monthly operational scorecard in Benin City. According to Ofoyefu, Isah was apprehended during a raid in the Oluku area of Benin City with multiple substances including methamphetamine (4 grams), cannabis sativa (54 grams), tramadol (6 grams), and Exol-5 (28 grams).
In a separate operation based on intelligence reports, the agency intercepted and seized 74 and a half bags of cannabis sativa weighing 1,115kg at Oke community in Uhunmwonde Local Government Area. This led to the arrest of two additional suspects: 33-year-old Isaac Israel from Akwa Ibom State and 19-year-old Precious Zion, a female from Rivers State.
Connection Between Drug Trafficking and Violent Crime
Commander Ofoyefu emphasized the direct link between drug trafficking and violent crimes in the state, noting that drug control is essential to Governor Monday Okpebholo's efforts to combat kidnapping and cultism in Edo State.
"The negative impact of drug trafficking on local economies, investment opportunities, and the escalating costs to law enforcement and healthcare systems will be drastically minimized through the adoption of proactive drug control strategies," Ofoyefu stated.
He further highlighted that community involvement and cooperation would be vital in winning the fight against drugs in society, calling for immediate and coordinated efforts to combat the risks associated with drug trafficking and abuse.
The NDLEA commander promised to remain steadfast in his mission to eradicate drug-related criminality and protect youths from the devastating effects of addiction and trafficking. He advocated for proactive strategies and better resource allocation to address the drug problem in Edo State.
This latest operational scorecard highlights both the challenges and the resolve of law enforcement in the fight against illicit substances in the state.
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