NDLEA arrested 18,500 suspected traffickers, seized 2.6 million Kilograms of medication in 2024 – Marwa
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) stated it arrested 18,500 suspected drug traffickers and seized 2.6 million kilograms of illicit medication in 2024.
Retired Brig.-Gen. Mohammed Buba Marwa, the company’s chairman, disclosed this on Tuesday throughout the inauguration of the NDLEA Central Exhibit Office in Ikoyi, Lagos.
The facility, situated on the company’s headquarters annex, was donated by the U.S. Government.
Marwa attributed the company’s operational successes in drug provide and demand discount efforts to the assist offered by the U.S. authorities and different companions.
Support from worldwide companions
He described the U.S. authorities as a dependable ally in Nigeria’s battle towards drug-related crimes, noting that continued collaboration had considerably bolstered the NDLEA’s operational capabilities.
“Today, I am particularly pleased to acknowledge one of such gestures: the donation of the office for our central exhibit custodians,” he stated.
He highlighted the significance of the power, emphasizing its function in guaranteeing environment friendly and safe dealing with of proof, which is important for the profitable prosecution of drug-related instances.
“This contribution strengthens our operational framework and sets a new standard for accountability and transparency in drug law enforcement. It is an investment in the security and future of our nations,” Marwa added.
Ongoing challenges in drug enforcement
Despite the company’s improved efficiency, Marwa famous that the battle towards drug trafficking and abuse was removed from over.
“As an organization, we are committed to overcoming the challenges,” he stated.
Operational achievements in 2024
The NDLEA Chairman highlighted the company’s achievements regardless of challenges, noting vital successes in combating drug-related points.
“In 2024, we seized over 2.6 million kilograms of illicit medication nationwide, arrested greater than 18,500 drug trafficking offenders, secured over 3,250 convictions, together with 10 drug barons, and destroyed greater than 220 hectares of hashish farms.
Additionally, we endorsed and rehabilitated over 8,200 drug abusers and carried out greater than 3,000 sensitization and advocacy programmes in colleges, markets, motor parks, worship centres, workplaces, and communities,” he acknowledged.
Marwa known as for continued assist and collaboration from the U.S. authorities and different companions, emphasizing the dynamic and multifaceted nature of the challenges posed by illicit medication.
“To address these challenges, we remain pragmatic in seeking further support from international partners, key stakeholders, and public-spirited individuals. Our priority areas include capacity building, advanced training for officers, provision of technology and equipment for surveillance and tracking, intelligence sharing, and operational logistics,” he defined.
He recommended the American folks for his or her longstanding assist and expressed gratitude to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), particularly thanking DEA attaché in Nigeria, Mr. Robert Bascoe, for his efforts.
Shared dedication to a safer world
Marwa additionally acknowledged the contributions of the United States Africa Command and the U.S. Embassy, emphasizing that their partnership aligns with the shared purpose of defending lives and selling a safer, more healthy world.
“As NDLEA Chairman, I pledge our unwavering commitment to accountability, transparency, and effective utilization of resources. Each donation not only strengthens confidence in the agency but also motivates resilience, hard work, and dedication among our workforce,” he added.
