NDLEA Arrests 1,247 Suspects In Edo

The Edo State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) says it has arrested no fewer than 1,247 suspects over drug-related offences in the state between 2015 and 2018.
The commander of the agency in the state, Mr Buba Wakawa, disclosed this recently in Benin at the inaugural meeting of the Edo State Drug Control Committee (ESDCC).
Wakawa also disclosed that within the period, about 186,501 kg of various narcotic drugs was seized, while about 164.6 hectares of cannabis plantation were destroyed.
He said that a total of 726 persons with drug abuse problem were counselled, while 156 drug dealers were convicted at the Federal High Court, Benin.
While appreciating the state governor for his political will in the campaign against drug abuse in the state, Wakawa gave an assurance that the committee would deliver optimally on its mandate.
“We can change the negative narrative of cannabis plantation to food production in Edo.
“We can also reduce the number of school dropouts, reduce the rate of criminal activities, thus preventing cultism and promoting sound health,’’ he said.