The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Benue State has arrested 251 individuals for various drug-related offenses in 2024. State Commander Esther Musa shared the update with the media on Wednesday in Makurdi, the state capital.
Of the 251 suspects, 220 were male, and 31 were female. Musa revealed that 31 suspects were convicted and sentenced to prison, 39 cases were dropped, and the remainder are still under investigation.
The command also seized significant quantities of illicit substances and drug-related exhibits. Among the items confiscated were 175.723 kg of cannabis sativa (commonly known as weed), 43 kg of Tramadol, 0.27 kg of Fitamin, 4.39 kg of Diazopharm, and 156.1 kg of Codeine syrup.
Additionally, the agency recovered locally made pistols, arms, and explosives, which were handed over to the army and police.
Musa highlighted that the command’s primary focus in 2024 was arrests, seizures, and public education. The NDLEA’s War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) campaign led to 142 sensitization programs, primarily in schools and religious centers, aimed at raising awareness about the dangers of drug abuse, trafficking, and cultivation.
The commander stressed the importance of collaboration with law enforcement agencies, traditional leaders, and other stakeholders in addressing the drug menace.
She also urged young people to resist the temptation of drug abuse, emphasizing its harmful effects on health and future prospects.
