NDLEA Arrests 68 Suspects, Seizes Over 7,500kg of Narcotics in Edo
Anti-Drug Agency Reports Major August Operation, Including the Destruction of Four Cannabis Farms Across the State.
The Edo State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency has arrested 68 suspected drug traffickers and seized or destroyed a total of 7,531.51kg of narcotic drugs during operations carried out in August 2026. The arrests involved 34 males and 34 females, according to the state commander, Mitchell Ofoyeju, who described the results as a significant step in the agency’s efforts to disrupt drug trafficking and substance abuse in the state.
The NDLEA said the operations were intelligence-led and resulted in the removal of large quantities of suspected illicit substances from circulation. Cannabis accounted for the overwhelming majority of the seizures, with 7,524.83kg recorded. Other substances listed by the agency included psychotropic substances, methamphetamine and codeine syrup. Authorities said the seizures represented a major setback for networks involved in the distribution of illegal drugs across Edo.
Beyond the arrests and seizures, NDLEA operatives also targeted cannabis cultivation in different parts of the state. Four cannabis farms were identified and destroyed in forest areas within Orhionmwon and Owan West Local Government Areas. The farms covered a combined area of approximately 2.57 hectares, with an estimated 6,433.33kg of cannabis destroyed as part of the operation.
The agency also reported that three new cases were filed during the month, while 87 cases remained pending. No convictions were recorded in August because the Federal High Court was on vacation, according to the state commander. Meanwhile, the NDLEA continued its prevention and rehabilitation efforts, with its counselling unit providing assistance to 23 people and enrolling 12 individuals in vocational training programmes.
Ofoyeju reaffirmed the command’s determination to continue combating drug trafficking and substance abuse in Edo State. He said the agency would maintain cooperation with community leaders, media organisations and other law-enforcement partners. The command also carried out public sensitisation programmes aimed at educating residents about the dangers associated with substance abuse, reflecting an approach that combines enforcement, prevention and rehabilitation.
