The Benue Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency reported the arrest of 251 individuals involved in drug-related crimes in 2024. The State Commander, Mrs Esther Musa, shared this information during an interview, mentioning that 220 of the suspects were male and 31 were female. Out of the arrested suspects, 31 were convicted, 39 cases were dropped, and the rest were ongoing.
The agency also confiscated various drugs, including a large quantity of cannabis sativa, Tramadol, Fitamin, Diazopharm, and Codeine syrup. Additionally, they seized locally made pistols, arms, ammunition, and explosives, which were handed over to the army and police.
Mrs. Musa highlighted the agency’s focus on arrests, seizures, and the War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) campaign. The WADA initiative aims to educate the public about the dangers of drug abuse through enlightenment programs in schools, worship centers, and other platforms.
The commander emphasized the importance of sensitization in preventing drug-related issues and called for support from the government and organizations to establish a standard rehabilitation center. She stressed the need for youths to avoid drug abuse to safeguard their health and future.