NDLEA arrests 559 drug suspects and rehabilitates 102 in Anambra

By Vincent Ujumadu

The Anambra State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) reports that it has detained 559 individuals suspected of drug offenses and has rehabilitated 102 drug users over the past 11 months as part of its campaign to curb drug abuse and trafficking in the state.

State Commander Charles Onubogu shared these figures during a briefing for journalists at the agency’s headquarters in Awka.

He noted that the arrests included 475 men and 84 women, and that the drugs seized were primarily cocaine and cannabis.

Onubogu added that 102 drug users, including three women, received treatment and rehabilitation during the period under review.

The briefing coincided with the launch of this year’s annual anti‑drug campaign, which will culminate in a road walk on Friday.

He also mentioned that 20 people facing drug‑related challenges were provided with counseling and vocational training in skills such as soap‑making and tailoring at the agency’s rehabilitation centre in the 33 Area of Onitsha.

The commander said that 128 suspects were convicted during the same period, noting that the agency employs a team of lawyers to prosecute drug‑related cases.

“We do not target users. Those we pursue are dealers, while users are counseled under our quick intervention programme. After investigation, those not linked to drug dealing are allowed to return home,” he said.

“Our responsibility is to arrest, investigate and prosecute. We have no control over what happens in court.”

Onubogu explained that the agency follows a dual strategy of supply‑side and demand‑side reduction to tackle drug abuse in Anambra.

“In Anambra, we address the drug problem through a balanced approach. On the supply side, we remove drugs from circulation by arresting suppliers. On the demand side, we sensitize users and help them make informed decisions about their lives,” he said.

He added that the agency operates a rehabilitation centre in the state where individuals struggling with addiction receive professional treatment and support to reintegrate into society.

The commander emphasized that combating drug abuse requires collective effort and cannot rely on the NDLEA alone.

“NDLEA cannot fight drug abuse alone, which is why all hands must be on deck. If we all do our best, the world will be a better place without drug abuse because as drug‑related problems continue to increase, the challenges also multiply,” he said.