NDLEA arrests suspect, seizes 457 kg of cannabis in Edo

NDLEA. File photo

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The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, Edo State Command, has apprehended a suspected drug trafficker in Uroe, in Owan East Local Government Area, and seized 457 kg of skunk cannabis inside a warehouse.

According to the State Commander of the anti-narcotic agency, Mitchell Ofoyeju, in a statement released on Monday, the raid operation took place on December 9, 2025.

The suspect, who is 44-year-old Ohiomah Igbafe, was found in possession of a massive haul of illicit substances, including 15 bags of cannabis sativa weighing a staggering 457 kilogrammes, alongside an additional sack containing four kilogrammes of cannabis seeds.

Ofoyeju added that the arrest marks a significant victory in the ongoing efforts to dismantle drug trafficking networks in the state.

“The operation reflects our undying commitment to the eradication of drug trafficking within Edo State. The quantity of illegal drugs seized in this raid represents a serious threat to public health and safety. This level of success encourages us to continue to confront drug cartels relentlessly,” he stated.

“Details from the raid indicated that 12 large bags weighed 427 kilograms, while 3 sacks accounted for 30 kilograms of cannabis sativa, totalling 457 kilograms. The seizure was uncovered at the suspect’s hideout in the Uroe Community, prompting the immediate launch of further investigations.

The commander warned would-be traffickers, stressing that no individual or group can evade the vigilant eyes of law enforcement.

He added, “We want to send a clear message that drug traffickers and their collaborators have no safe harbour in Edo State. The NDLEA will continue to track, arrest, and prosecute offenders in line with the NDLEA Act,” he declared.

Meanwhile, the suspect, Ohiomah Igbafe, said that he ventured into the illegal drug business because of the financial difficulties he found himself in.

In his words, “My involvement in drug trafficking is due to economic reasons. My father is late, and my mother has an eye challenge. My only brother is paralysed, and I am the breadwinner of the family. I was introduced to cannabis cultivation two years ago. I do not know how my wife and six children will survive without me. Please, I need help.”

The seized drugs and the suspect have been taken into custody as investigations proceed.

The PUNCH reported that the last command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, on Wednesday, said it arrested two traffickers and seized 763kg of skunk cannabis in the state.

Ofoyeju noted that the operation that led to the arrest and seizure of the drugs was part of the pre-Yuletide drug control strategies.

He also said that two vehicles were impounded in the operation, describing both seizures as impressive efforts towards ridding the state of illicit drugs during the festive season.

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