The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Edo State has arrested 37 suspected drug traffickers and recovered 345.421 kilograms of various narcotic substances during operations conducted in June 2025.

Mitchell Ofoyeju, the State Commander of the agency, revealed these achievements during a press briefing in Benin City on Monday. According to Ofoyeju, the arrested suspects include 25 males and 12 females who were apprehended by narcotic officials during various operations across the state.

The commander provided a detailed breakdown of the seized substances, which comprised 310.485 kg of cannabis, 0.3415 kg of psychotropic substances, and 0.3175 kg of methamphetamine. Additionally, authorities recovered abandoned drugs including 33.226 kg of cannabis sativa, 0.67 kg of psychotropic substances, 0.373 kg of methamphetamine, 5 litres of codeine syrup, and 0.004 kg of cocaine.

"The command secured 5 convictions out of the 11 cases charged to court within the period," Ofoyeju stated, adding that a total of 107 cases are currently pending at the Federal High Court in Benin City.

Cannabis Farm Destruction

In a significant blow to drug production in the region, the NDLEA destroyed illegal cannabis farms measuring 7.2738851 hectares with an estimated yield of 18,184.7128 kg. These farms were located at Okhuse Forest and Ugbada Uzebba Forest in the Owan West Local Government Area of Edo State.

The Drug Demand Reduction Unit of the command also provided counseling services to 32 clients, including 18 males and 14 females, as part of efforts to address substance abuse within the community.

Ofoyeju emphasized that these achievements are part of a broader strategy aimed at dismantling drug trafficking networks in Edo State. He assured that the Command remains steadfast in its mission to combat drug trafficking and abuse, highlighting its commitment to dismantling drug cartels through continued vigilance and community involvement.

The intensified operations come amid growing concerns about the prevalence of drug abuse and trafficking in the state, with authorities working to reduce both supply and demand through enforcement and rehabilitation efforts.

Stay updated with the latest news on drug enforcement operations and other important stories by following BenriNews on our social media platforms: Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, WhatsApp, and Telegram.