According to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, 239 suspected drug traffickers—197 men and 42 women—were apprehended in Akwa Ibom State between July 2022 and May 2023.
In addition, during the time under review, it counseled 160 drug users, treated and rehabbed 15 clients, and seized substances weighing more than 1,465,99kg.
As part of events to commemorate the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking in Uyo on Monday, the Commander of NDLEA in Akwa Ibom, Mrs. Obot Bassey, made this announcement while briefing reporters.
She continued by saying that at that time, the command had succeeded in getting 59 narcotics criminals convicted.
She said: “From last year’s celebration till this moment, NDLEA Akwa Ibom State Command has been committed to saving humanity through its mandate of eliminating illicit drugs from homes and streets through arrests, seizures of illicit drugs.
“Prosecution of drug dealers preventive mechanisms of campaign and awareness creation on the consequences of illicit drugs abuse.
“From July 2022 to May 2023, the State Command arrested a total of 239 suspects made up of 197 males and 42 females. Seized drugs weighing 1, 465.99 kg, convicted 59 drug offenders,” Bassey said.
The commander revealed that a number of psychotropic drugs, including cannabis sativa, cocaine, heroin, meth, and amphetamine, are often abused throughout the state.
Bassey emphasized the importance of prevention in the fight against drug usage and said that the command would employ campaigns and sensitization programs to keep drug use in the state to a bare minimum.
She claimed that the directive was intended to raise awareness of the significance of treating drug users with respect and compassion.
She said, “The campaign also aims to combat stigma and discrimination against attitudes that are respectful and non judgemental.”
Bassey urged the State Government, philanthropists, and everyone to work with the command to minimize drug abuse and trafficking. Bassey urged the State Government to provide the command with utility vehicles so that it could patrol the 31 local government areas, particularly border areas, to help stop drug trafficking in the state.
