The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has recorded a major breakthrough in its fight against narcotics trafficking with the interception of 457 kilograms of skunk marijuana during an intelligence-led raid in Edo State.
The operation, carried out on December 9 in Uroe community, Owan East Local Government Area, also led to the arrest of a 44-year-old suspect believed to be linked to the illicit trade.
Edo State NDLEA Commander, Dr. Mitchell Ofoyeju, disclosed the development during a media briefing in Benin City. He explained that operatives stormed an illegal warehouse allegedly used for drug storage, recovering 15 bags of marijuana weighing 457kg and an additional sack containing 4kg of marijuana seeds.
Ofoyeju described the seizure as a significant blow to drug trafficking networks in the state, noting that the volume of narcotics confiscated posed a serious threat to public health and safety.
“This operation reflects our unwavering commitment to the eradication of drug trafficking in Edo State,” he said.
The NDLEA boss confirmed that the suspect and the seized drugs had been taken into custody, with investigations ongoing to dismantle the wider trafficking network. He warned that traffickers would find no safe haven in Edo, stressing that the agency would continue to track, arrest, and prosecute offenders in line with the NDLEA Act.
While in custody, the suspect reportedly admitted to involvement in the drug trade, claiming that economic hardship and family responsibilities pushed him into the illegal activity.
The NDLEA emphasized that the seizure underscores its determination to protect communities from the dangers of narcotics, while reinforcing its message that drug trafficking will not be tolerated in Edo State.
