By Deborah Coker
Benin – The Edo Command of National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) says it arrested no fewer than 240 suspects for drug related activities in the state in 2017.
Mr Buba Wakawa, the State Commander of NDLEA, disclosed this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday in Benin.
He said that more than 45,000 kg of suspected Indian hemp were seized during the period, while 10 vehicles and three motorcycles were also impounded in connection with drug trafficking.
The official said that 34 drug farmlands totaling more than 50 hectares and valued at N2.9 billion were destroyed between January till date.
Wakawa said that the command arrested 29 suspects for various illicit drug activities with about 11,000 kg of suspected Indian hemp.
The commander said that such a large quantity of drugs was of great concern to the drug control managers.
“For us as drug control managers in the state, this is a cause for concern.
“You can imagine the amount of money we have taken away from drug traffickers.
“And this is the one we were able to take out of illegal circulation.
“The implication is that it is a huge problem that needs the urgent and active participation of all stakeholders.”
Wakawa decried the lack of operational facilities including vehicles and bed spaces for the rehabilitation of persons with drug abuse disorders.
