Edo State Commander of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, Mitchell Ofoyeju, on Thursday said females topped the list of suspected drug traffickers arrested in the state in July.
Ofoyeju stated this at an event held at the command’s headquarters in Benin, where 73 newly promoted personnel were decorated.
He said that out of the 49 suspects arrested during the month, 29 were females while 20 were males.
Ofoyeju stated that during the month under review, a total of 2,596.29 kilogrammes of illicit drugs were seized, noting that the shift in the suspects’ profile indicates the “socio-economic vulnerability of women and a breakdown of traditional family stability.”
He added, “This month three warehouses were detected, two in Benin City and one at Illushi. Two vehicles, a Toyota Sienna with registration number Ondo NND 975 AG and a Toyota Camry with registration number Edo BEN 503 BK used in transporting cannabis were equally intercepted.
“Cannabis led the seizure list with 2,588.4 kilograms, psychotropic substances 6.13 kilograms, cocaine 0.071 kg, heroin 0.005 kg, and methamphetamine 1.68 kg.
“Also, the command seized 15.3 litres of codeine cough syrup and 10 cylinders of nitrous oxide, also called laughing gas. These assorted narcotics underscored the varied nature of substances being trafficked and abused within the state.
“The command also destroyed one cannabis farm located in the Egbisi Forest of Abudu, Orhionmwon Local Government Area of the state. This farm measured an extensive 0.640903 hectares and was estimated to yield around 1,602.26 kilograms of cannabis.
“The command’s efforts have not gone without recognition, as it successfully secured convictions in four notable drug cases during the month.”
Speaking on the newly promoted personnel, Ofoyeju said the elevation came as a result of hard work, sacrifice, loyalty and commitment to service, noting that promotion in the NDLEA is not automatic but is earned as a reward for diligence, integrity and outstanding performance in the fight against drug trafficking and abuse.
“This new rank comes with greater responsibility, higher expectations, and increased scrutiny. Kindly note three things as you rise to your new rank.
“Your new rank is a call to higher service. The public is watching. The traffickers will test you more. The command expects your momentum to increase.” he said.
