The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has seized three tons (3,122.730 kg) of illicit drugs worth N 100m, just as it has also convicted 256 drug traffickers in Plateau and Anambra States respectively in 2023
The Commander of NDLEA in Plateau, Umar Yahuza, on Thursday in Jos, said 70 per cent of the illicit drugs seized consisted of Marijuana, while the others were abused drugs such as; tramadol, pentazocine, diazepam, cocaine.
Yahuza, further said in 2023, 1,155 suspects, comprising (1,076 males and 79 females), were arrested by personnel of the command, who also secured the total of 96 convictions in court.
The commander said the command also carried out brief counseling of some addicts.
According to him, the command through its War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) programme, also carried out campaigns in 97 public places in the state, which comprised schools , market places, religious centres, motor parks and many other public places.
He bemoaned the rising cases of drug abuse among the youths, adding that vehicles and motorbikes were mostly used by peddlers for transporting banned substances.
Yahuza, called on parents and guardians to advise their wards on the ills of drug abuse and trafficking.
In Anambra state, the state commander, Mr Daniel Onyishi, said the conviction was a landmark achievement for the agency, and a critical milestone in the fight against drug trafficking in the state.
He said that the command also intercepted 3.3 tons of illicit drugs and substances in 2023.
“We commend the judiciary for the reforms that is ensuring a faster prosecution of illegal drug peddlers in the state, this will help create a society free of illicit drugs.
“We also appreciate the Anambra government for its continued support to the agency and ensuring that we fulfil our mandate in drug demand and supply reduction.
“We are committed to continue closing up on criminal elements that are using the state as a transit route for illicit drugs, as well as those maintaining any form of clandestine laboratory where methamphetamine, popularly known as ‘Mkpụrụmmiri’, is produced,” he said.
The NDLEA commander urged community and religious leaders, civil society, non-governmental organisations and other stakeholders to partner with the agency to win the war against drug abuse and trafficking.