The Cross River Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has arrested 274 suspected drug dealers in 2024, marking a significant step in its fight against drug trafficking and abuse in the state.
The NDLEA also reported seizing 788.8 kilograms of hard drugs, including hemp, cocaine, methamphetamine, and heroin, over the same period. The command’s leader, Rachael Umebuali, disclosed these details in Calabar on Friday while highlighting the agency’s challenges and achievements.
Convictions and Asset Forfeiture
Ms. Umebuali announced that the command secured 38 convictions in court this year, demonstrating its commitment to prosecuting offenders. Additionally, a Toyota Previa bus used in drug-related activities was forfeited to the federal government.
“This year’s successes surpass what we recorded in 2023, both in arrests and the volume of drugs seized,” she noted.
Rising Drug Abuse Among Youths
The NDLEA expressed concern over the increasing use of drugs among young people in the state. Ms. Umebuali revealed that drug peddlers often use vehicles and motorbikes to transport banned substances, making enforcement efforts more challenging.
She urged communities to collaborate with the agency, especially in sharing vital information about drug trafficking activities.
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Operational Challenges
While celebrating the command’s accomplishments, Ms. Umebuali highlighted several obstacles hindering their efforts. “Our operations are hampered primarily by inadequate operational vehicles, inaccessible and bad roads, especially during the rainy season, cultism, and communal crises,” she said.
She also pointed out other issues, including limited funding, interagency cooperation difficulties, internal and external sabotage, and a lack of community support.
To enhance their operations, she appealed for additional resources: “The command needs vehicles and other sundry logistics to function optimally in combating drug trafficking in the state.”
Call for Community Cooperation
Ms. Umebuali stressed that the fight against drug trafficking requires collective effort. “The unwillingness of host communities to cooperate with the agency in sharing information remains a significant challenge,” she lamented.
The NDLEA urged residents of Cross River to support the agency in its mission to rid the state of illegal drugs and their devastating effects on young people and communities.
With these arrests and convictions, the NDLEA Cross River Command remains resolute in its mission to combat drug abuse and trafficking, despite facing significant operational challenges.