A joint operation conducted by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the Nigerian Army has led to the destruction of two cannabis plantations in Eko Camp, Illushi, Esan South East Local Government Area of Edo State. The operation resulted in the arrest of two suspects, identified as Ajeh Egwuda and Nonso Ajodhe, both from the Esan South East Local Government Area.
According to Mitchell Ofoyeju, NDLEA Edo State Commander, the cannabis plantations measured 0.544092 hectares with an estimated yield of 1,360.23kg of cannabis. Additionally, 107kg of processed cannabis, including cannabis seeds, was recovered. The commander stated that Ajeh Egwuda, 43 years old, was cultivating a cannabis farm measuring 0.068011 hectares, estimated to yield approximately 170.03 kg of cannabis.
The NDLEA Edo State Commander further disclosed that Nonso Ajodhe was found with a larger plot of 0.476081 hectares, with an estimated yield of 1,190.20 kg. Both suspects claimed to have taken to cannabis cultivation as a result of poverty and the negative influence of friends. Ofoyeju emphasized that the operation was a strong warning to those engaging in cannabis cultivation in the state.
The NDLEA Edo State Command is committed to addressing the drug problem in the state, combining intelligence-driven surveillance, community engagement, and decisive enforcement. Ofoyeju expressed determination to protect communities from the harms of drug abuse and trafficking, collaborating with armed forces and stakeholders to dismantle drug networks.
The operation reflects the unwavering commitment of the NDLEA and Nigerian Army to reduce the impact of illicit substances on society. The commander assured that the NDLEA Edo State Command will not rest until cannabis cultivation is rooted out of their communities. The joint operation is part of a broader campaign to combat drug-related crimes in the state.
Ajeh Egwuda, married to one wife with two children, and Nonso Ajodhe, married to one wife with five children, are currently in custody. The NDLEA and Nigerian Army's efforts aim to curb the spread of cannabis cultivation and use in Edo State, promoting a safer and healthier community.
The NDLEA Edo State Command's efforts to combat cannabis cultivation and drug trafficking have yielded significant results, with the destruction of the two plantations and arrest of the suspects being a notable achievement. The command's commitment to community engagement and intelligence-driven surveillance is expected to continue, with the goal of eradicating cannabis cultivation in the state.
Key points
- The NDLEA and Nigerian Army destroyed two cannabis plantations measuring 0.544092 hectares in Edo State.
- Two suspects, Ajeh Egwuda and Nonso Ajodhe, were arrested in connection with the cannabis cultivation.
- The NDLEA Edo State Command is committed to addressing the drug problem in the state through intelligence-driven surveillance and community engagement.
