Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Rivers State Command, have arrested 39 suspected drug dealers.

The agency said the achievement was made within four months, noting that the suspects included three females.

It further revealed that it had secured 12 convictions while about 14.83 kilogrammes of drugs were seized within the period of December 2025 and March 2026.

Commander of the NDLEA, Rivers State Command, Bature Dawa, made the disclosure when he paid a courtesy call on the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr Dagogo Wokoma, in his office in Port Harcourt.

Dawa said 16 new cases were currently under investigation, saying that the agency, through its drug demand reduction and drug supply control units, has intensified efforts to curb the spread of illicit drugs in the state and ensure offenders are brought to justice.

He stated: “About 39 suspected drug peddlers have been arrested, out of which 36 are male and three female.

“We also seized about 14.83 kilogrammes of different kinds of drugs. Also within this period just last month, we were able to convict 12 drug peddlers and 16 new cases were charged to court.”

Dawa, therefore, enjoined parents and guardians to closely monitor their children and also urged hotel owners and managers to remain vigilant and prevent their facilities from being used for drug-related activities.

He, however, advocated introduction of drug integrity tests in schools and within the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) scheme as part of measures to discourage drug abuse among young people.

However, Wokoma, who commended the dedication and collaboration of the Federal Government agencies working to sustain a safe and secured environment, said that the state’s governor, Siminalayi Fubara, appreciates the synergy between the federal agencies in promoting the administration’s vision of peace, prosperity and progress in the state.

The SSG said Fubara remains committed to initiatives that promote peace and social order, noting that the administration will continue to support programmes of the federal agencies aimed at strengthening security and public safety.

“Our governor is committed to peace, progress and prosperity in Rivers State. I, therefore, encourage all residents, especially young people who are often targeted by those involved in drug abuse, to stay away from drugs, crimes and reckless driving.”