The Edo State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency says more women than men were arrested for alleged drug-related offences in July, as the command intensified its operations across the state.
Speaking during the decoration ceremony for 73 newly promoted personnel at the agency’s headquarters in Benin City on Thursday, the state commander, Mitchell Ofoyeju, disclosed that 49 suspects were arrested during the month, including 29 women and 20 men.
He said operatives recovered 2,596.29 kilograms of illicit substances during the period, adding that the increasing number of female suspects points to the “socio-economic vulnerability of women and a breakdown of traditional family stability.”
The commander revealed that officers uncovered three drug storage facilities, two in Benin City and one in Illushi, while also intercepting two vehicles allegedly used for transporting cannabis.
Most of the drugs recovered were cannabis, while smaller quantities of psychotropic substances, cocaine, heroin and methamphetamine were also seized.
Ofoyeju further stated, “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.”
Congratulating the 73 promoted personnel, Ofoyeju said the advancement reflected their hard work, discipline and dedication to duty. He stressed that promotions in the NDLEA are earned through performance and integrity rather than being automatic.
He urged the officers to see their new ranks as a greater call to service and remain steadfast in the fight against drug abuse and trafficking.
“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.”
