By Asmau Ahmad with Agency Report
The Bayelsa Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) on Sunday said it arrested 185 suspects and seized 247.49 kilogrammes of illegal drugs in the state in 2014.
Reviewing the agency’s operations in Yenagoa, Mr. Frank Hanachor, the State NDLEA Commander, also said the agency secured 25 convictions in the year under review.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Commander declined to disclose the value of the drugs haul.
He however reiterated the resolve of NDLEA to win the war against drug trafficking and use in Bayelsa. Hanachor said a 53-year-old woman was arrested in possession of 20.9 kilogrammes of cannabis sativa, while two other suspects were arrested with 58kg and 10.3kg of the same drug respectively.
“Another suspect was arrested with 1.4g of substances suspected to be cocaine while two others were apprehended with 28.3kg of cannabis sativa,’’ he said.
The NDLEA official said the suspects could have been taken to court but for the ongoing strike by judiciary workers.
“As soon as they resume duties in the state, the suspects will be arraigned in court,’’ he said.
Hanachor warned Bayelsa residents against dealing in or using illicit drugs, saying they could only damage their lives and gain no benefits.
“Drugs cannot make you, they will rather mar you. To the end users, they get them knocked off, withdrawn, cause problems at home and other dangerous consequences.
“So, I advise that you don’t touch drugs. Keep off drugs. Do the society a world of good by reporting those engaged in the nefarious activities to the relevant authorities.
“I can assure you we will protect your confidentiality,” he said
