The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, Ogun State Command, said it recovered 3.33 tonnes of cannabis sativa, 10.949 kg of psychotropic substances, 0.017kg of cocaine and 227.0 litres of skuchies, among others, in the last five months.
The Commander of Narcotics, Tijjani Rabe, disclosed this on Monday at a press conference held at the Command’s headquarters, Abeokuta, as part of activities marking the 2024 United Nations International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
Rabe noted that 11.0 litres of codeine, and 0.129 kg methamphetamine were also recovered.
He disclosed that the Command arrested 117 male suspects, 30 female suspects and secured 86 convictions.
Rabe said, “Summary of activities and achievements from January-May 2024. Seizures – cannabis sativa: 3.33 tonnes, psychotropic substances: 10.949 kg, cocaine: 0.017 kg, skuchies: 227.0 litres, codeine: 11.0 litres, methamphetamine: 0.129 kg.
“Arrests- male suspects 117, female suspects 30, Total Suspects: 147. Prosecutions: charged cases: 71, convictions secured: 86, pending cases: 174. Clients counseled (Brief Interventions) Total: 112 (5 females, 107 males).”
Speaking on the year’s celebration, Rabe explained that the global event, commemorated on June 26th, is themed, ‘The Evidence Is Clear, Invest In Prevention’.
He maintained that the celebration is aimed at strengthening actions to achieve a world free of drug abuse and related problems.
The commandant emphasized the importance of a prevention-oriented approach to reduce illicit drug use among the youth, who are often influenced by peer pressure and the desire for acceptance.
“Families, schools, religious organizations, and professional bodies need to invest in prevention to stop activities leading to illicit drug use.
“The theme aligns with the command’s drug control initiatives, highlighted in our War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) activities targeting schools, community leaders, religious organizations, and political leaders to improve the well-being of Ogun State residents,” he said.