Operatives of the National Drugs Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have arrested 322 suspected drug abusers at various locations in Delta State between January and March this year.

The Delta State Commander of NDLEA, Abubakar Wada, confirmed the arrests yesterday during a press briefing in Ogwashi-Uku. He stated that the suspects included 248 males and 74 females.

Wada disclosed that the agency seized 1.3328 tonnes and 42.54 litres of drug exhibits during the period under review. He further revealed that a truckload of cannabis worth about N25 million was intercepted around 2:30 a.m. along the Ughelli-Kwale road, although the dealers managed to escape.

“Although they are still on the run, we are going to maintain the tempo of operations, not only to arrest them but also to reduce the incident of drug abuse in the state,” Wada said.

The commander also highlighted that the agency destroyed a 50-hectare cannabis farm in Orogun community, Ughelli North Local Council. Wada noted that 76 offenders were convicted, while 195 drug users were counselled within the same period. He described the abusers and dealers as dangerous and heartless during operations, but assured the public that the NDLEA would not relent in its efforts.

He urged stakeholders to collaborate with the NDLEA in the fight against drug abuse. According to him, the command also rehabilitated five clients and provided free medications to members of the host community.