NDLEA Arrested 251 Suspects in 2024 – Benue Commander
State Commander Mrs. Esther Musa disclosed this during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Makurdi.
Providing a breakdown of the arrests made between January and December 2024, Musa stated that 220 of the suspects were male, while 31 were female. She further revealed that 31 individuals had been convicted, 39 cases were dismissed, and others remained ongoing.
The commander also detailed the seizure of various illicit substances, including one ton (175.723 kg) of cannabis sativa, commonly known as weed, and 43 kg of Tramadol. Other confiscated drugs included 0.27 kg of Fitamin, 4.39 kg of Diazopharm, and 156.1 kg of Codeine syrup.
Additionally, NDLEA operatives recovered locally made pistols, ammunition, and explosives, which were subsequently handed over to the army and police.
Musa emphasized the command’s key achievements in arrests, seizures, and the War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) sensitization campaign. WADA, she explained, is an initiative aimed at educating the public—particularly students, religious groups, and community leaders—on the dangers of drug abuse, trafficking, and cultivation.
In 2024, the agency conducted 142 sensitization programs, mainly in schools and worship centers, while also engaging law enforcement agencies, traditional rulers, and other stakeholders in drug awareness campaigns.
“Our primary strategy for reducing drug-related crimes focuses on enlightenment, advocacy, and sensitization,” Musa stated. “Prevention through awareness is more cost-effective than enforcement actions like arrests and seizures.”
She also appealed to the Benue State Government, NGOs, and well-meaning Nigerians to assist in establishing a standard rehabilitation center, noting that the command’s current facility is inadequate, particularly for female clients.
Musa urged young people to steer clear of drug abuse, warning that it poses serious risks to their health and future potential.
No comments:
Post a Comment