NDLEA Arrests 45,853 Suspects, Secures 9,263 Convictions In 30 Months

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have arrested 45,853 suspects for various drug-related offences and secured 9,263 convictions in the last 30 months.

NDLEA Chairman/Chief Executive Brig Gen Mohamed Marwa (rtd) stated this in Abuja on Wednesday while decorating newly promoted officers.

The NDLEA boss presented commendation letters and awards to 220 personnel for outstanding performance in their duties, while 15 senior officers were decorated with their new ranks.

At the event, Marwa said, “Today, we specifically recognise those who have gone above and beyond. Despite facing immense danger and relentless temptation, we celebrate those who chose the path of integrity, selflessness, and uncompromising adherence to our mandate.

“Your commitment to the renewed hope agenda of the administration of President Tinubu has yielded tremendous results in the past 30 months on our two major planks of drug demand reduction and drug supply reduction, leading to 45,853 arrests; seizure of over 8.5 million kilograms of assorted illicit drugs; and conviction of 9,263 offenders; with 26,613 drug users counselled and rehabilitated in our treatment facilities across the country, while a total of 9,848 War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) sensitisation activities were conducted in schools, work places, markets, motor parks, worship centres and communities among others within the same period.”

While noting that he has upheld the tradition of hosting the commendation and awards ceremony in the last four and a half years to appreciate and encourage officers, men, and women who have distinguished themselves in the line of duty, Marwa said the challenge of the drug scourge remains monumental. As such, I would like more work to be done.

He says, “Without mincing words, our challenge is monumental. Drug abuse, trafficking, and the associated criminal enterprises represent a direct and existential threat to the social fabric, economic stability, and national security of Nigeria. They fuel crime, corrupt our youth, and provide resources for terrorism and insurgency.

“But for every kilogram of cocaine intercepted, for every clandestine laboratory dismantled, for every major drug kingpin apprehended, a critical blow is delivered to these criminal networks. These victories are no doubt the direct result of your dedication.”

He said the reward system he established is to maintain the momentum and keep the workforce in optimal condition, materially and mentally, while ensuring high morale. “

He appreciated local and international partners who believed in the agency and supported its efforts.