The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Ogun says it secured convictions of 86 illicit drug dealers between January and May 2024.

The narcotics commander of NDLEA, Ogun Command, Tijjani Rabe, said this at a news conference to commemorate the 2024 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking in Abeokuta on Monday.

The theme of the 2024 celebration is “The Evidence is Clear; Invest in Prevention.”

Mr Rabe said families, schools, religious organisations, and professional bodies need to invest in prevention to stop activities leading to illicit drug use.

“This theme emphasises the importance of a prevention-oriented approach to reducing illicit drug use among youth, often influenced by peer pressure and the desire for acceptance.

“It also aligns with the command’s drug control initiatives, highlighted through its War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) activities that target schools and religious organisations to improve the well-being of the state’s residents,” he said.

The narcotics commander also disclosed that 3.33 tonnes of marijuana, 10.949 kg of psychotropic substances, 0.017 kg of cocaine, and 0.129 kg of methamphetamine were withdrawn from circulation during the period in review.

“Other illicit drugs withdrawn from circulation during the period under review included 227 litres of skuchies and 11.0 litres of codeine,” he said.

Mr Rabe further said the command arrested 157 suspected illicit drug dealers, comprised of 127 males and 30 females.

He also said 112 suspected drug users, including five females and 107 males, were counselled and rehabilitated during the period.

(NAN)