NDLEA arrests 47 suspects, seizes 541kg of cannabis in Edo

The Edo State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) says it arrested 47 suspects and seized 541.47 kilograms of narcotic drugs across the state in May 2026. The State Commander, Mitchell Ofoyeju, disclosed this in Benin City while presenting the command’s monthly performance scorecard for May. He said the arrests were made during intelligence-led operations at identified drug flashpoints across Edo State, adding that the suspects comprised 25 males and 22 females. Ofoyeju explained that cannabis sativa accounted for the bulk of the seizures, with 540.6253 kilograms recovered. “Other substances seized included 0.2701 kilogram of psychotropic substances such as tramadol, Swinol, diazepam and Rohypnol; 0.1415 kilogram of methamphetamine; and 1.4 litres of codeine syrup,” he said. He further disclosed that the command secured three convictions within the period, while 94 cases are currently pending before the Federal High Court in Benin City. According to him, the command also rehabilitated 31 drug-dependent persons, comprising 24 males and seven females, while eight others are still undergoing rehabilitation. Ofoyeju said the arrests and seizures reflected the command’s sustained efforts to rid the state of illicit drugs. He warned that Edo State would not serve as a safe haven for drug traffickers, adding that the command would intensify intelligence-led operations to apprehend those involved in the distribution and sale of narcotics.