The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) on Wednesday arrested two alleged drug traffickers during an awareness walk against trafficking along Ihama Road in Benin City, Edo State.

The suspects were apprehended while participants marched through major streets of Benin City to commemorate the 2025 World Day Against Trafficking.

The event was organised by the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) to mark the annual observance.

The 2025 theme is “Human Trafficking is Organised Crime: End the Exploitation.”

Speaking after the walk and arrests, NDLEA Edo State Commander, Mitchell Ofoyeju, said human and drug trafficking were deeply interconnected and represented dangerous forms of organised crime.

Mr Ofoyeju described both crimes as highly profitable ventures that lured many into criminal networks driven by greed and a lack of conscience.

He stated, “In the course of this walk through Benin City, we apprehended two drug traffickers. They will face prosecution in accordance with the law.’’

He also disclosed that five other traffickers were arrested in the previous week and were currently undergoing court proceedings.

Mr Ofoyeju stated, “This sends a strong warning to those involved in drug and human trafficking: you can run, but we will catch you.’’

He added that every step taken during the awareness walk symbolised the fight against social vices and the commitment to building a safer and more responsible society.

Mr Ofoyeju assured the public that NDLEA remained committed to working closely with NAPTIP to eliminate all forms of trafficking in Edo State and across Nigeria.

Earlier in his welcome address, NAPTIP Benin Zonal Commander, Sam Offiah, noted that Edo State continued to be hotspots for trafficking activities.

Represented by Stephen Selowo, Head of Counselling and Rehabilitation, Mr Offiah urged stakeholders to remain vigilant, report suspicious behaviour, and promote community awareness.

“Today’s walk goes beyond symbolism, it is an urgent call to action for stronger partnerships and community-based counter-trafficking strategies,” he stated.

He called for improved surveillance, better prosecution, enhanced support for victims, and a collective effort to end the demand that fuelled human exploitation.

“The theme reminds us that trafficking is not random; it is a well-organised criminal enterprise with devastating consequences. It robs people of their futures, exploits the vulnerable, and strips victims of dignity and life,” he said.

On behalf of the NAPTIP Director General, Mr Offiah thanked all stakeholders and partners who joined the road walk to mark the 2025 awareness day.

He emphasised the agency’s goal of breaking the chains of trafficking and securing a free, safe future for all Nigerians, particularly women and children.

In his remarks, Senior Project Assistant at the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), Aigbeze Uhimwen, commended NAPTIP’s efforts in combating human trafficking in Edo State.

Mr Uhimwen pledged IOM’s continued collaboration with NAPTIP and other partners to sustain anti-trafficking efforts and protect vulnerable communities.

(NAN)