The Edo State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) apprehended 37 suspected drug traffickers in June 2025. The command’s routine operations also led to the seizure of 345.421 kilograms of narcotic drugs.

This was made known when Commander Mitchell Ofoyeju showcased the NDLEA’s operational scorecard and diligent efforts in the fight against drug trafficking and abuse in Benin City.

“During the reporting period, narcotic officials apprehended 37 suspects, comprising 25 males and 12 females. These arrests are part of a broader strategy aimed at dismantling drug trafficking networks and addressing the concern of substance abuse within the community,” Mitchell stated.

He gave the breakdown of the seized drugs as 310.485 kg of cannabis, 0.3415 kg of psychotropic substances, and 0.3175 kg of methamphetamine. Additionally, authorities seized 33.226 kg of cannabis sativa, 0.67 kg of psychotropic substances, 0.373 kg of methamphetamine, five litres of codeine syrup, and 0.004 kg of cocaine, which were abandoned.

“In a bid to further disrupt the drug trade, the command undertook the destruction of illegal cannabis farms measuring 7.2738851 hectares with an estimated yield of 18,184.7128 kg, which were razed in two locations – Okhuse Forest and Ugbada Uzebba Forest – all in the Owan West Local Government Area of the state.

The prosecution unit of the command reported judicial progress, with 11 cases charged in June and five convictions. A total of 107 cases are pending at the Federal High Court in Benin City.

Recognising the importance of community engagement, the Drug Demand Reduction Unit of the command provided counselling to 32 clients, composed of 18 males and 14 females. The unit also conducted a series of awareness programmes across various organisations. Noteworthy events included a two-day sensitisation workshop at the Edo State Ministry of Public Safety, attended by 122 participants, a session at Idogbo Mosque that drew 557 attendees, and a large gathering at the Living Faith Church Egba 1, which attracted 760 participants. The observance of World Drug Day on June 26 also saw an impressive turnout of individuals at the Festival Hall, Edo State Government House, Benin City.

Mitchell stressed that the NDLEA Edo State Command remains steadfast in its mission to combat drug trafficking and abuse, emphasising its commitment to dismantling drug cartels through continued vigilance and community involvement.