NDLEA apprehends 24 drug traffickers, intercepts 19,824.57kg drugs

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) reported on Monday that its Seaport Directorate in Lagos had detained 24 people since January who were in possession of 19,824.57kg of drugs.

This was said by Mrs. Omolade Faboyede, Director of Seaport Operations, at the Lagos celebration of the 2023 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.

The narcotics, according to Faboyede, included cocaine, heroin, heroin indica, cannabis sativa, and psychoactive compounds.

Every June 26, the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking is observed to promote action and collaboration toward the goal of a drug-free world.

The Day had the theme, “People First, Stop Stigma and Discrimination, Strengthen, Prevention”.

“The theme also addresses strengthening of prevention and at the seaports, our prevention strategy is to make seizures to prevent the drugs getting into circulation,” she said.

She said that drug trafficking through the sea was a security problem for all countries of the region because it involves the movement of large quantities of drugs.

“The world drug problem is a complex issue that affects millions of people worldwide. There are 200 million drug users worldwide and the number continues to grow every day.

“The trafficking of narcotic drugs by sea is an attraction for major international criminal organisations and terrorists.

“Everyday cartels and organised crime rings use ships and boats to transport large quantities of drug and narcotics worldwide. The illegal drug trade is estimated to be worth $26 billion (N19,630 trillion) annually.

“All countries regardless of their location depend on the safety of the oceans and waters,” she said.

Faboyede noted that another goal of the year's campaign was to increase understanding of the significance of treating drug users with respect and giving prevention and compassion a top priority.

By fostering polite and non-judgmental language and attitudes, she claimed the campaign would also work to remove stigma and discrimination towards drug users.

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