NDLEA arrests 234 suspects in possession of Indian hemp

The Kogi State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA has arrested 234 suspects in possession of cannabis sativa popularly called Indian hemp and other psychotropic substances, Our Kogi State Correspondent reports.

The State Commander of NDLEA, Alhaji Idris Bello disclosed this in Lokoja while briefing newsmen on the activities of the Command in 2016.

Alhaji Bello who described the war against drug as dangerous, explained that, among the arrested suspects were 10 female in connection with a seizure of 7,550.844kgs of cannabis sativa and psychotropic substances of which 3,425.600kgs of the seizure came from the patrol in 2016.

According to the Commander, also impounded were 8 vehicles used in transportation of these illicit drugs, while 20 persons have been sentenced to various terms of imprisonment.

Bello added that, 30 cases are still pending and 140 drug users were counseled in the year in review.

The NDLEA Commander explained further that, “various black spots in Lokoja metropolis, where trade of illicit drugs are being carried out were raided and some completely destroyed, like the central hotel drug haven in Lokoja.  A joint raid by security forces led by the NDLEA dislodged some notorious cannabis smoking joints in Idah Town in Igalamela/Odolu Local Government of the State in 2016”.

Alhaji Bello while maintaining that Kogi State being a drug transit State as revealed by its geographical location, noted that traffickers always invent more ingenious means of concealing their illicit wares.

He added, it is in view of this that the Command determination to eradicate drug trafficking in the State has foiled even the best efforts of drug dealers in the State.

While calling for a collective effort in the fight against drug abuse and trafficking, Alhaji Bello expressed worries in the rate in which people are now involved in drugs, most especially at a tender age noting that it has great consequences to the peace of any society.

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