The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has destroyed seized narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances valued at about ₦2.8bn in Edo State.
The destruction exercise was carried out in Benin City on Thursday, with the agency burning a total of 73,463.21 kilogrammes of illegal substances recovered during various operations.
Cannabis sativa made up the largest portion of the destroyed drugs, weighing 73,210.23 kilogrammes. Other substances included 246.36 kilogrammes of psychotropic drugs such as Tramadol, Diazepam and Codeine syrup.
The agency also destroyed smaller quantities of other hard drugs, including Methamphetamine, Cocaine and Heroin.
The NDLEA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Mohamed Buba Marwa, said the exercise showed the agency’s determination to reduce drug trafficking and abuse across the country.
Represented by the Director of Operations and General Investigation, Suleiman Ahmed Ningi, Marwa said the destruction was part of efforts to weaken illegal drug networks.
He thanked the Edo State Government for supporting the agency, especially through the provision of land for the construction of a new command headquarters.
The Edo State Government also promised continued support in tackling drug-related problems. Governor Monday Okpebholo, represented by Edesili Anani, described drug abuse as a threat to public safety and health.
The governor warned those involved in the illegal drug trade to leave the state, adding that plans were underway to create a rehabilitation centre for affected individuals.
The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Drugs and Narcotics, Joseph Ikpea, praised the NDLEA for its efforts and promised legislative support to strengthen the agency.
The Edo State NDLEA Commander, Mitchell Ofoyeju, revealed that officers had intercepted drugs hidden in vehicles, trucks and other locations, adding that some personnel had faced attacks while carrying out their duties.
He urged parents and guardians to pay more attention to their children and protect them from the dangers of drug abuse.

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