Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have uncovered a cannabis warehouse in Edo State, recovering 1,359kg of cannabis and cannabis seeds while arresting two suspected drug traffickers.
The seizure followed a joint operation by the Edo State Command of the NDLEA and the Nigerian Army, which led to the discovery of a four-bedroom bungalow allegedly converted into a warehouse for storing large quantities of skunk cannabis in Illushi Community, Esan South East Local Government Area.
The Edo State Commander of the NDLEA, Mitchell Ofoyeju, disclosed the development in a statement issued on Tuesday in Benin City, describing the operation as one of the agency’s major breakthroughs in the fight against illicit drug trafficking in the state.
According to Ofoyeju, operatives recovered 52 giant bags of cannabis, three gallons of cannabis seeds and an additional bag containing cannabis seeds during the raid.
He said the seized drugs comprised 1,273kg of cannabis and 86kg of cannabis seeds, bringing the total weight to 1,359kg.
He added that two suspects were apprehended during the operation. They were identified as 45-year-old Ojore Onweze, who was allegedly found in possession of 60kg of cannabis, and 30-year-old George Agwumede, who was arrested in connection with 13kg of the substance.
Providing further details, Ofoyeju said, “During the raid on a four-bedroom bungalow that was being used as a warehouse for storing large quantities of the illegal substance, skunk cannabis weighing 1,286kg and 86kg of cannabis seeds were seized and evacuated. Also, two suspected drug traffickers were apprehended.”
He expressed concern over the growing trend of using residential buildings as storage facilities for narcotic drugs, warning that such activities pose serious threats to the safety and wellbeing of communities.
“The use of residential houses in stockpiling illicit drugs is dangerous and must be vehemently confronted by citizens.
“These enemies of the state must not be allowed to destroy our communities. We are pleased with the operational successes recorded because the quantity is massive and impressive. This raid is a testament to our unwavering determination to dismantle the networks that seek to undermine our collective peace and safety,” he said.
Ofoyeju noted that investigations into the drug operation are ongoing, with efforts focused on identifying other members of the suspected trafficking network and uncovering possible links to wider criminal activities.
He stressed that the agency’s recent successes underscore its commitment to strengthening collaboration with stakeholders, including community leaders, in tackling drug trafficking and substance abuse across Edo State.
“This fight is not just for NDLEA; it is a collective responsibility. We sincerely appreciate the Nigerian Army for the synergy and urge every citizen to take part in this campaign against drug abuse.
“We are resolute in our efforts to rid Edo State of this menace and will not relent until those responsible for trafficking and distributing illegal substances are brought to justice. Together, we can build a safer and healthier environment for current and future generations,” Ofoyeju added.