The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) says it has arrested 559 suspected drug offenders and secured 128 convictions in Anambra State over the past 11 months as part of its intensified campaign against illicit drug trafficking and abuse.
The State Commander, Charles Onubogu, disclosed this on Wednesday in Awka during a press briefing ahead of the 2026 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, observed annually on June 26.
According to Onubogu, the suspects comprise 475 men and 84 women who were apprehended for various drug-related offences during the period under review.
He also revealed that the command seized approximately 1.8 tonnes of illicit substances, including cocaine, methamphetamine and cannabis, describing the recoveries as a significant achievement in the agency’s ongoing enforcement efforts.
“Since assuming office about 11 months ago, we have recorded major seizures of different categories of drugs. In total, about 1.8 tonnes of illicit substances have been recovered, while 559 suspects have been arrested and 128 convictions secured,” he said.
The NDLEA commander further disclosed that 102 individuals struggling with substance abuse, 99 males and three females, had undergone rehabilitation within the same period.
He added that many of those receiving treatment were enrolled in vocational training programmes such as tailoring and soap-making to support their reintegration into society, while several others benefited from counselling and early intervention services.
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Onubogu stressed that the agency’s strategy combines enforcement with prevention, noting that while traffickers are targeted for arrest and prosecution, drug users are encouraged to seek rehabilitation and support.
“Our primary focus is on drug dealers. People battling addiction need help, and we provide counselling and intervention programmes to assist them in overcoming substance abuse,” he said.
Speaking on this year’s theme for the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, “The World Drug Problem: Persistent Issues, New Challenges, Innovative Responses”—he called for stronger collaboration among the media, civil society organisations and the public to tackle drug abuse and trafficking.
He also announced that the Anambra command would organise a road walk and other awareness activities to commemorate the global anti-drug campaign.
