NDLEA Nabs Influencer, Accomplice Over Cannabis-laced Cookies In Edo

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Edo State Command has arrested a social media influencer, a 19-year-old Praise Nwogu, and one Ebong Emem Oghosa, 25, for lacing cookies with cannabis.

In a statement on Monday, NDLEA Commander in Edo State, Mitchell Ofoyeju, said both suspects were apprehended with various confectioneries that tested positive for cannabis.

Nwogu, who resides in Benin City but hails from Imo State, was found in possession of 12 plates and one cup of brownies infused with cannabis indica.

The anti-narcotic agency said the susect was the brain behind online promotion of the brownie with numerous videos on different channels.

Oghosa, who hails from Akwa Ibom State and also resides in Benin City, is believed to be the production expert.

During the arrest, the suspect was found with 76 grams of cannabis sativa and 1.5 grams of Colorado (a potent synthetic form of cannabis).

In addition to the illicit drugs, she was found with one large pan and a plate of brownies.

Ofoyeju warned individuals hiding under the canopy of online vending to traffic drugs, urging them to prepare for the Agency’s clampdown.

“This should serve as a clear message to all perpetrators of online drug peddling that they have no place to hide. This unfortunate development is very concerning, as innocent customers do not know that the cookies are laced with illicit drugs, including synthetic cannabis known as Colorado.

“Engaging in the manufacturing and distribution of cookies laced with illicit drugs, especially those harmful to our youth and society, has severe consequences,” he warned.

He noted that, “When they advertise their products online, they do not state that the cookies are laced with illicit drugs. How would you feel if your drug test returned positive for cannabis simply because you ate their cookies?

“It is fraudulent and unacceptable. This can be devastating for a patient, young students, and other unsuspecting members of society. Members of the public must be careful about what they eat.”