NDLEA: 100 suspects arrested, 290kg illicit drugs seized in Cross River within six months

The Cross River command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) says it arrested about 100 suspects across the state between January and June over alleged illicit drug offences.

Speaking during a press conference in Calabar, the capital of Cross River, on Tuesday, Rachael Umebuali, the state commander of the agency, said the command also seized 290 kg of illicit drugs within the period.

Umebuali said cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, diazepam, tramadol, and cannabis sativa are among the seized illicit drugs.

She added that Ikom, Abi, Biase, and Calabar south are the LGAs in the state with high rates of drug abuse.

The commander expressed displeasure at the escalating level of drug consumption and trafficking in the state and the country at large.

Umebuali said the challenge of drug abuse had evolved into a serious social issue with consequences for security, the economy, and the overall welfare of the population.

“This has undeniable connections to the rise in insecurity, which is having negative impacts on peace and the economy nationwide,” NAN quoted the NDLEA boss as saying.

“Armed robbery, kidnapping, banditry, rape, and other violent crimes are attributable to the consumption of illegal drugs.”

The commander urged the government, corporate bodies, and people with a desire for change to join forces with the agency to eliminate illicit drugs in society.

She said the command also used the week to visit places of worship to carry out anti-drug sensitisation campaigns.

“Our intention is that they will in turn sensitise their children and wards to the fight against illicit drugs,” she said.

“Drug abuse in the state is so high that we need to do a lot. We cannot do this alone without the collaboration of other agencies and the media.

Umebuali commended the state government for its support of the agency in fulfilling its duties in the state.