The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has revealed that it destroyed more than 51 hectares of cannabis sativa plantations and arrested 281 suspects involved in drug trafficking, peddling, and substance abuse across Ekiti State within the last year.
The disclosure was made by the Ekiti State Command of the agency during a review of its operations and achievements in the fight against illicit drug activities in the state.
According to the NDLEA, the large-scale operation led to the destruction of extensive cannabis farms located in various parts of Ekiti State, particularly in remote forest areas where illegal cultivation activities were being carried out.
The agency stated that the successful raids were the result of intelligence-driven operations conducted by its officers in collaboration with other security stakeholders and local communities. During the operations, significant quantities of cannabis sativa were destroyed to prevent them from reaching the illegal drug market.
In addition to the eradication of the plantations, the NDLEA said 281 suspects were apprehended for various drug-related offences, including trafficking, possession, distribution, cultivation, and abuse of illicit substances.
The command noted that the arrests form part of its ongoing efforts to dismantle drug trafficking networks and reduce the availability of illegal drugs within the state.
Officials expressed concern over the increasing threat posed by drug abuse, especially among young people, warning that substance abuse remains a major contributor to criminal activities, social unrest, and public health challenges.
The agency reaffirmed its commitment to intensifying enforcement operations, strengthening intelligence gathering, and expanding public sensitisation campaigns aimed at discouraging drug abuse and illicit drug cultivation.
The NDLEA also called on residents of Ekiti State to continue supporting its activities by providing timely and credible information that could assist in identifying individuals and groups involved in drug-related crimes.
