The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, Edo State Command, said it had arrested 252 suspected drug dealers and traffickers over the course of nine months.
Edo State Commander of the anti-drug agency, Mr. Buba Wakawa, disclosed this on Thursday through Assistant Commander Narcotic Ondoimi Bebetu, who is in charge of Media and Advocacy in Benin, the Edod State capital.
The agency revealed that the arrests took place between January and September, 2023.
Wakawa explained that individuals arrested for suspected drug use were offered counseling and subsequently released to their families, noting that the law permits the agency to provide counselling to such individuals.
“To combat drug trafficking, the NDLEA collaborated with the Police, the Army, the Department of State Security, and other relevant agencies to conduct periodic operations in hotels and event centres across the state, resulting in the arrest of drug dealers and traffickers.
“From January until now, NDLEA has apprehended 252 suspected drug traffickers and peddlers in the state. Some of them have been incarcerated, some are currently facing legal proceedings, and others have received counselling”, anti-narcotic commander said,
Wakawa stated further that, “We visit hotels and recreational centres where young individuals are known to engage in drug trafficking. Upon arrest, the suspects are questioned to identify those involved in drug dealing, peddling, and usage.”
“Despite the significant challenges faced in the fight against drug abuse in Edo State, the NDLEA has been making every effort to reduce drug usage and disrupt the drug supply chains in the state.
“Commonly trafficked drugs in the area include cannabis, tramadol, cocaine, heroin, Colorado, and codeine syrup. Users often sniff, cook, chew, or smoke these drugs, in addition to swallowing tramadol,” he added.
