NDLEA arrests 262 drug suspects in Cross River.

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Cross River State Command has confirmed that at least 262 individuals suspected of drug offenses were arrested in the state.

State commander John Anteyi said the arrests occurred between January and June, comprising 207 men and 55 women.

He reported that 28 of those suspects have been convicted, and 61 cases have been filed in court.

Additionally, 132 cases are currently pending at various stages before the state high court.

Anteyi linked the arrests to the seizure of 6,575 drug consignments during the same period.

The seized items included 6.398 kg of cannabis sativa, 1.47 kg of cannabis sativa seeds, 60.4 g of cocaine, 20.2 g of heroin, 778.6 g of methamphetamine, and 166.4 kg of psychotropic substances.

The command also destroyed 14 hectares of cannabis farms in Akamkpa Local Government Area.

Commander Anteyi expressed concern over the growing prevalence of drug abuse among youths and its impact on public safety and national development.

He noted that drug abuse has become a growing issue across educational institutions, urban centres, rural communities, and among vulnerable groups.

Mr. Anteyi reaffirmed the command’s commitment to combating drug abuse in the state.