Emmanuel OchayiIn a decisive move against drug trafficking and abuse, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) obliterated a significant cache of narcotics, totaling 304,436 kilograms and 40,042 liters.
The operation, conducted on Tuesday in Badagry, Lagos, underscores the agency’s unwavering commitment to tackling the drug scourge.
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (Ret), led the ceremony, highlighting the importance of community support in the fight against drug-related crimes. “Our mission is clear: to rid our society of the menace of drug abuse,” stated General Marwa.
The destroyed substances, ranging from solid to liquid forms, included cocaine, heroin, cannabis, and tramadol. These drugs were intercepted by NDLEA operatives across various locations in Lagos and Ogun states over the past two years.
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General Marwa expressed gratitude to stakeholders from diverse sectors, acknowledging their crucial role in the agency’s operations. “We cannot do this alone. It requires a collective effort,” he stressed. The support of international partners such as the American Drug Enforcement Administration (US-DEA) and the United Kingdom NCA has been instrumental in NDLEA’s fight against drug trafficking.
Local representatives, including Mr. Olusegun Onilude, Chairman of Badagry West Local Government, lauded NDLEA’s initiatives in addressing the root causes of drug-related crimes. “The agency’s proactive measures in raising awareness are commendable,” remarked Mr. Onilude, emphasizing the importance of educational campaigns in schools and communities.
The destruction of these illicit substances, as ordered by the courts, sends a strong message to traffickers and abusers alike. “We will continue to pursue them relentlessly,” vowed General Marwa.
The event served as a reminder of the collective responsibility in combating drug abuse. General Marwa called upon citizens to support NDLEA’s War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) campaign, emphasizing the need for unity in securing the nation against the drug menace.
As the remnants of the destroyed narcotics dissipated into thin air, so too did the hopes of those who seek to profit from the suffering of others. In their wake, NDLEA stands firm, a beacon of hope in the ongoing battle for a drug-free society.
