Kaduna Drug Bust: NDLEA Arrests 1,290 and Seizes 4,500kg of Illegal Substances in 2024
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Kaduna State has made significant strides in combating drug trafficking and abuse, arresting over 1,290 suspects and seizing more than 4,589 kilograms of illicit substances in 2024.
Speaking to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday, NDLEA Kaduna State Commander, Mr. Samaila Danmalam, detailed the agency’s extensive operations from January to December, which included a series of raids and interventions aimed at tackling drug-related crimes. The agency’s approach combined kinetic actions—direct operations and arrests—with a focus on reducing drug abuse in the state.
Danmalam explained that the seizures included a wide array of illegal drugs, such as cocaine, marijuana, methamphetamine, tramadol, rohypnol, and other psychotropic substances. Additionally, the NDLEA intercepted 2,023 rounds of ammunition and confiscated two firearms, including an English pistol and a locally fabricated pistol.
The year also saw the agency tackle financial crimes linked to drug trafficking, with counterfeit N1,000 naira notes totaling N4.8 million seized in operations. NDLEA officials dismantled 124 illicit drug joints that were known hotspots for drug-related activities.
“While kinetic efforts are crucial, they alone will not win the war against drugs,” Danmalam stressed, highlighting the importance of a multi-faceted approach. In 2024, the NDLEA Kaduna Command also ramped up its community engagement initiatives. These included sensitization campaigns, awareness lectures, counseling for drug users, and rehabilitation efforts aimed at reintegrating individuals into society.
Also Read: NDLEA Arrests 6 Foreigners, Impounds 1.9kg of Cannabis
The command also took legal action, prosecuting 189 suspects, with 155 convicted and sentenced to prison terms ranging from two to 15 years.
Danmalam expressed gratitude to the Kaduna State Government, traditional rulers, civil society groups, media, and other security agencies for their continued support in the fight against drug abuse. He urged the public to remain vigilant and share timely information to help the NDLEA build a drug-free state.
Beyond Kaduna, NDLEA’s efforts have been felt nationwide. Recently, the agency intercepted 1,960 kilograms of cannabis at Eleko Beach, Lagos, and arrested six foreign nationals. In Edo State, NDLEA operatives raided a drug den in Benin City, arresting 21-year-old Kosisochukwu Ozigbo with large quantities of tramadol, codeine-based syrup, and various opioids.
