The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, (NDLEA) has arrested two individuals trying to smuggle cocaine into the country. This was disclosed by the chief executive officer of the agency, Buba, Marwa on Wednesday.
According to him, the smugglers ingested the drug, posing as pilgrims going to Saudi Arabia for Hajj celebration. Marwa, during a drug control meeting in Abuja, expressed concern over the trend of criminal networks, trafficking drugs internationally.
The agency boss recalled incidents where people were deceived in the name of Hajj, exploiting religious sentiments. Marwa stated the incident of three women deceived into delivering a bag lined with cocaine, to a supposed relative in Saudi Arabia.
However, he reassured that the agency remained steadfast in its mission, despite funding challenges in the agency. Marwa expressed that the amendment of the NDLEA Act will strengthen the agency’s capacity for drug supply reduction.
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He adds that the amendment act has been passed by the National Assembly, currently awaiting the President’s approval. The Chairman also applauds the agency for its progress while reviewing programs implemented to curb drug trafficking.
He revealed that 31,334 drug offenders have been arrested since the implementation of the supply reduction pillar. He continued that over 4 million kilograms of illicit drugs have been seized, including the destruction of a cannabis farm.
The agency also records rehabilitation services to over 19 thousand individuals since the implementation of the drug demand reduction strategic pillar.
Drug Trafficking will be stopped: Fagbemi assures Nigerians
The minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, expressed hope that the amendment Act would strengthen NDLEA efforts in drug control.
Fagbemi disclosed that the ministry is in full support of the organization to ensure the effectiveness of the country’s legal system.
The attorney general of the federation revealed that the ministry is providing appropriate support to dismantle drug traffickers’ financial networks.
