The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has destroyed 73,463.21 kilogrammes of illicit drugs and psychotropic substances in Edo State, marking one of the agency’s largest public drug destruction exercises in recent times.
The operation was carried out on Thursday at the Idogbo Bypass in Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area of Edo State following an order of the Federal High Court in Benin City.
Speaking during the exercise, Edo State Commander of the NDLEA, Mitchell Ofoyeju, said the destruction underscores the agency’s unwavering commitment to combating drug trafficking and preventing dangerous substances from reaching communities.
According to him, the seized narcotics were recovered through sustained intelligence-driven operations targeting drug trafficking networks operating within and beyond Edo State.
Cannabis accounted for the largest share of the destroyed substances, with a total weight of 73,210.23 kilogrammes.
Other illicit substances destroyed included 246.36 kilogrammes of psychotropic drugs, comprising 141.81 kilogrammes of tramadol, 61.77 kilogrammes of codeine cough syrup, and 8.43 kilogrammes of diazepam.
The agency also destroyed 3.74 kilogrammes of cocaine, 2.66 kilogrammes of methamphetamine, and 0.22 kilogrammes of heroin.
Ofoyeju revealed that the command has intensified enforcement operations through the destruction of cannabis plantations, raids on illegal drug warehouses, and the interception of vehicles used for narcotics transportation.
He added that several suspects have been arrested across different demographics, while illicit substances concealed in unconventional locations, including shrines, have also been uncovered and seized.
The commander further disclosed that NDLEA operatives have faced attacks from armed criminal groups during some operations but remain resolute in executing their mandate.
Representing the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the NDLEA, Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd.), the Director of Operations and General Investigation, Ahmed Ningi, described the exercise as a significant milestone in the agency’s ongoing campaign against drug trafficking and organised crime.
According to him, the public destruction exercise demonstrates transparency, accountability, and the agency’s determination to ensure that seized narcotics do not find their way back into circulation.
He noted that the destruction of the drugs has prevented thousands of illicit substances from reaching the streets, where they could fuel addiction, criminal activity, and broader social instability.
Ningi also warned drug traffickers and dealers to abandon the illegal trade, stressing that the NDLEA remains committed to tracking offenders, dismantling trafficking networks, and prosecuting those involved in the illicit drug business.
The exercise was witnessed by representatives of security agencies, government officials, religious leaders, community stakeholders, and students, reflecting broad public support for the fight against substance abuse and drug-related crimes.
