In a major crackdown aimed at reducing drug-related crimes to the barest minimum in Edo State, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has arrested 209 suspected drug traffickers across various locations in the state.

Commander of the NDLEA Edo State Command, Mitchell Ofoyeju, disclosed this during a press briefing in Benin City as part of activities marking the 2025 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking. The theme of this year’s commemoration is: “The Evidence is Clear: Invest in Prevention.”

Ofoyeju said the campaign against drug abuse remains a top priority for the agency under the leadership of Brigadier General Buba Marwa (Retd).

He revealed that since January, the command has arrested 209 suspected traffickers—129 males and 80 females—based on intelligence-led operations. Additionally, the command has dismantled 18 cannabis farms, secured 24 convictions, and offered counseling and rehabilitation services to 194 individuals and 19 clients diagnosed with drug abuse disorders.

According to the commander, 53,520.80kg of assorted drugs have been seized within the same period, underscoring the agency’s intensified efforts against trafficking and abuse in the state.

“Two of the suspects were picked up at Ihama Road in the Government Reservation Area (GRA), which has become notorious for drug peddling,” Ofoyeju said.

He added that the recent raids and operations form part of the agency’s renewed onslaught against drug cartels and hotspots across the state.

“Our goal is to dislodge every drug joint, identify and evacuate illicit drug warehouses, and destroy cannabis plantations through constant raid operations to ensure the safety and well-being of Edo State residents,” he stated.

Ofoyeju reassured the public of the agency’s unwavering commitment to sustaining the momentum in the fight against drug abuse and trafficking.