NDLEA impounds over 1.4m kg of cannabis in 6 months

 The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, Seme Command, said it impounded 1,457,867kg of `Cannabis Sativa,’ also known as Indian Hemp between January to June, 2016.


The NDLEA Commander, Mr Odotong Essien, told The Nigerian Observer  on Wednesday in Badagry that a total of 21 suspects were arrested under the period.

“From January to June 2016, a total of 1,457.867kg of Indian hemp weighing 1.457tons was seized and the monetary exhibits included N7.458m and 28.572million CFA.

“A total of 21 suspects comprising eight females and thirteen males were arrested, while eight of them have been convicted and sentenced to various terms of imprisonment.

“The command isn’t just about arresting and prosecuting offenders; we also believe in rehabilitation and 13 drug-dependent persons were counselled and went through rehabilitation.

“Various enlightenment programmes were embarked upon to enlighten the public on the danger of drug abuse and trafficking and we will ensure that in the other half of the year, more arrests would be made,’’ he said.

Essien revealed that the command had modified its ways to block drug trafficking through the waterways.

“The border is well guarded by different security agencies so the drug traffickers have started using the waterways to traffic drugs.

“We have modified our strategies by blocking the various track routes and waterways through partnering with the Marine Unit of the Nigeria Customs Service and the Marine Police and it has paid off tremendously.

“The inter-agency cooperation and synergy at the border between the commmand, the Nigeria Customs Service and the Police have made our work easier and they must be commended.


Essien also commended the commitment of the Chairman of NDLEA, Col. Muhammed Abdallah (rtd), for providing the necessary equipment and logistics for the duties.

He urged the public to desist from drug trafficking or be ready to face the wrath of the law.