NDLEA Edo drug arrests in June 2025 lead to 37 suspects held, 345.421kg of narcotics seized, 5 convictions secured, and over 18,000kg of cannabis destroyed
The NDLEA Edo drug arrests for June 2025 have led to the apprehension of 37 suspected drug traffickers and the seizure of over 345 kilograms of narcotics, according to the Edo State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).
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Addressing journalists in Benin City on Monday, the State Commander, Mitchell Ofoyeju, detailed the agency’s achievements over the past month.
He disclosed that the 37 arrested individuals—comprising 25 men and 12 women—were apprehended in various anti-narcotics operations across the state.
In total, the command confiscated 345.421 kilograms of narcotic drugs. The breakdown of the seizure includes 310.485 kg of cannabis, 0.3415 kg of psychotropic substances, and 0.3175 kg of methamphetamine.
Ofoyeju further disclosed that abandoned drug seizures included 33.226 kg of cannabis sativa, 0.67 kg of psychotropic substances, 0.373 kg of methamphetamine, five litres of codeine syrup, and 0.004 kg of cocaine.
The NDLEA Edo drug arrests are part of a sustained crackdown on narcotics trade and consumption in the region.
Ofoyeju revealed that the command also secured five convictions in June from the 11 cases charged to court, while 107 cases remain pending before the Federal High Court in Benin City.
In a major blow to the cannabis cultivation network, the NDLEA also reported the destruction of illegal cannabis farms measuring a combined 7.27 hectares.
The destroyed farms, located at Okhuse Forest and Ugbada Uzebba Forest in Owan West Local Government Area, were projected to yield over 1884 kilograms of cannabis.
“These eradication efforts significantly disrupt the supply chain and are vital to dismantling the infrastructure supporting illicit drug trade,” said Ofoyeju.
As part of its Drug Demand Reduction strategy, the agency’s counselling unit engaged with 32 clients comprising 18 males and 14 females who are receiving rehabilitation support to recover from substance abuse.
Commander Ofoyeju reaffirmed the NDLEA’s mission, stating:
“Our operations are guided by a broader strategy focused on dismantling drug trafficking networks and addressing community concerns about substance abuse. We remain steadfast in our commitment to combatting these threats.”
He further urged the public to collaborate with the agency by reporting suspicious drug-related activities, noting that community involvement is critical in the fight against illicit drug trafficking and abuse.
The NDLEA Edo drug arrests in June are part of a nationwide campaign by the NDLEA to clamp down on the rising tide of drug trafficking and consumption.
With growing concerns about drug abuse among youths and vulnerable populations, the agency continues to increase surveillance, enforcement, and rehabilitation efforts.
The NDLEA also reminded residents of Edo State that drug offences carry strict legal penalties, including imprisonment and forfeiture of assets, as stipulated under Nigeria’s drug control laws.
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Commander Ofoyeju concluded by reiterating the agency’s zero-tolerance approach, stating that all drug cartels, regardless of size or influence, will be targeted and dismantled.
