NDLEA Arrests Five, Impounds Trucks With ₦724m Cannabis In Edo

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has dealt a major blow to drug trafficking syndicates following the interception of two heavy-duty trucks loaded with cannabis sativa in Edo State. The seized illicit substance, which weighed several tons, has an estimated street value of ₦724 million.

During the coordinated operation, NDLEA operatives arrested five suspects believed to be key members of a distribution network moving large quantities of drugs across the country. The trucks were intercepted along a major highway in Edo State following a period of surveillance and intelligence gathering.

According to a spokesperson for the agency, the cannabis was expertly concealed behind crates of legitimate goods to evade detection. However, the use of advanced detection techniques and sniffer dogs led to the discovery of the hidden compartments.

"This seizure is a testament to our unwavering commitment to making Nigeria drug-free," the NDLEA stated. "The five suspects are currently in custody and are providing useful information that will help us track down the financiers of this multi-million naira shipment."

The Chairman/Chief Executive of the NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), commended the officers for their professionalism and vigilance. He noted that Edo State remains a strategic transit point for drug traffickers and vowed that the agency would continue to intensify its "offensive action" against cartels. 

The suspects are expected to be charged in court as soon as preliminary investigations are concluded. This latest operation comes amid a nationwide crackdown by the NDLEA on the cultivation and distribution of illicit substances, particularly as the agency seeks to reduce drug abuse among Nigerian youth.