NDLEA arrests 600 and seizes over 621kg of drugs in Bayelsa crackdown
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency in Bayelsa State has arrested 600 suspected drug offenders and seized 621.55 kilogrammes of illicit substances. Kanu Sunny Chukwuemeka, the State Commander, revealed these figures while briefing journalists at the command headquarters in Yenagoa. The arrests included both males and females, with operations targeting drug joints, hotels, bars, shops, and transport routes. The agency also confiscated thousands of tablets, capsules, and bottles containing psychotropic substances.
What happened
- Kanu Sunny Chukwuemeka stated that undercover operations, patrols, and raids led to the arrest of 407 males and 193 females, totaling 600 suspects.
- The NDLEA seized 621.556 kilogrammes of drugs, including cannabis mixtures, codeine, tablets, and injection ampoules.
- A combined mixture of cannabis sativa and alcohol, known locally as monkey tail, koskorin, or wisdom wine, was identified as the most commonly abused substance.
- The estimated street value of the seized drugs is over N64.7 million, and 621 persons were referred for counselling, with 34 successfully rehabilitated.
- In prosecution efforts, 20 cases were filed at the Federal High Court in Yenagoa, resulting in eight convictions, while three cases were struck out and one withdrawn.
