The National Drugs Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has arrested 353 suspects for various drug-related offenses between June 2024 and the present, the agency announced.
According to NDLEA, a total of 3,125.875 kilograms of hard drugs—including cannabis sativa and psychotropic substances—were seized during this period.
At a press briefing marking this year’s United Nations International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, NDLEA State Commander Ali Umar revealed that the agency also identified and destroyed cannabis farms across eight local government areas in the state.
He emphasized that the war against drug abuse remains a top priority for the agency. So far, the command has secured 53 convictions of drug dealers at the Federal High Court in Jalingo, with several other cases still pending trial.
“The command arrested a total of 353 suspects, including 18 females,” Umar stated.
“During the review period, 53 convictions were secured, resulting in various jail terms, while other prosecutions are ongoing.”
Umar highlighted key challenges faced by the command, including community reluctance to provide information on drug dealers.
“Unfortunately, some communities even resort to mob attacks on officers during operations, which protects criminals and worsens insecurity,” he said.
Additional challenges cited include inadequate accommodation, limited operational logistics, and the absence of treatment, counseling, and rehabilitation facilities.
Despite these obstacles, the NDLEA maintains strong collaboration with sister security agencies in the state, particularly in intelligence sharing, suspect transfers, and handling of seized exhibits.
Regarding seizures, Umar detailed that 1,275.538 kilograms of hard drugs were confiscated, comprising 1,046.934 kilograms of cannabis sativa and 228.604 kilograms of psychotropic substances. Approximately 30 hectares of cannabis farms were destroyed in Gembu, Yorro, Ibi, Zing, Takum, Kurmi, Ardo-Kola, and Karim Lamido local government areas.
“As of today, the total exhibits held by the command stand at 3,125.878 kilograms,” he added.
