NDLEA Yobe seized 537kg of drugs, arrested 46 suspects in 2024, and secured 21 convictions. Efforts include rehab and awareness campaigns

[dropcap]T[/dropcap]he National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Yobe State announced on Tuesday that it seized over 537 kilogrammes of illicit substances and arrested 46 suspects in 2024.

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Speaking in Damaturu during the agency’s annual review, NDLEA Commander Abdulazeez Ogungboye disclosed that the seizures included 396.526kg of marijuana and 141.2kg of psychotropic substances.

Ogungboye stated that 21 convictions were secured out of the 46 suspects charged, with an additional 85 cases pending at the Federal High Court in Damaturu.

This highlights the agency’s commitment to tackling drug trafficking and abuse in the region.

In its bid to combat drug dependency, the NDLEA offered counselling to 219 individuals and conducted extensive awareness campaigns targeting schools, workplaces, faith-based organisations, and local communities.

The Yobe command also operated a mini rehabilitation centre, which successfully rehabilitated five individuals after a three-month programme.

However, Ogungboye urged the state government to establish a standard rehabilitation centre to replace the current improvised facility, which accommodates only 16 inmates.

To strengthen its operations, the agency set up five rural outposts across the state, ensuring its presence in areas where drug-related issues are prevalent.

Ogungboye commended the support from Governor Mai Mala Buni’s administration and collaboration with other agencies. He reaffirmed the NDLEA’s dedication to achieving a drug-free society in Yobe State.

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As the agency looks ahead to 2025, it plans to scale up efforts in enforcement, rehabilitation, and community outreach to further curb the menace of drug abuse and trafficking.