NDLEA Arrests 155-Suspects In Bayelsa’s Ongoing-Battle Against Illicit-Drugs (Full-Details)

NDLEA Arrests 155-Suspects In Bayelsa’s Ongoing-Battle Against Illicit-Drugs (Full-Details)

The Bayelsa State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has reported significant progress in the fight against illicit drug trafficking, announcing the arrest of 155 suspects for various drug-related offenses.

State NDLEA Commander Kanu Chukwuemeka shared this update on Wednesday during a press conference in Yenagoa, the state capital, coinciding with the 2024 United Nations Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, themed “The evidence is clear: Invest in Prevention.” Chukwuemeka also noted the seizure of 97.826 kg of various illicit drugs.

He expressed concerns over the frequent attacks on NDLEA personnel and the lack of a marine unit and gunboats needed to combat drug trafficking in coastal areas effectively.

“Lagos State, with its coastal communities, has a fully-fledged marine unit with gunboats. Bayelsa, with its riverine coastal communities, also deserves a marine unit and gunboats. This we have been clamoring for. Our men are always attacked while on duty by youths. Though this has constituted a challenge, it has not deterred them from performing their duties,” Chukwuemeka stated.

Highlighting the command’s achievements, Chukwuemeka revealed that 14 youths had been admitted for in-patient drug rehabilitation, with six successfully rehabilitated and discharged. Additionally, the NDLEA conducted Integrity Drug Tests on over 100 individuals for early detection, prevention, and treatment of substance abuse. The command also provided counseling to 107 clients, comprising 76 males and 31 females.

Furthermore, the War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) campaign has reached various communities, schools, churches, motor parks, markets, and radio stations throughout Bayelsa State, ensuring widespread awareness and education on the dangers of drug abuse.