The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency said it destroyed more than 18,000kg of cannabis sativa in a major raid on a forest in Edo State and arrested four suspects linked to the illicit farm.

The agency’s Edo State Commander, Mitchell Ofiyeju, told journalists on Monday in Benin City that the operation, carried out on September 11, targeted Ugbogui Forest in the Ovia South West Local Government Area of the state.

According to him, the operation, facilitated through intelligence reports, is part of efforts to cut off supply lines of illicit drugs, warning of its impact on food production.

Mr Ofoyeju said, “The operation, which was based on actionable intelligence, is posing a serious threat to food security. If these forests can be utilised only for the cultivation of food and cash crops, the challenge of food shortage will be adequately addressed.’’

The NDLEA commander disclosed that the destroyed plantation spanned about 6.79 hectares, with an estimated yield of more than 16,966 kilogrammes.

In addition, he said the operatives recovered 112 bags of harvested and processed cannabis weighing 1,176kg.

Mr Ofoyeju described the exercise as a “bold step” in safeguarding communities from the dangers of drugs.

He said, “This operation underscores the agency’s commitment to combating drug cultivation in the state, thereby reinforcing our efforts to rid our communities of the dangers posed by illicit drugs.”

He said the suspects, names withheld, from Delta and Akwa Ibom states, were caught taken refuge in tents on the farm, adding that they would soon be charged in court.

Mr Ofoyeju urged the public to share credible intelligence with the agency, stressing that NDLEA “remains vigilant in promoting public health and safety.”

(NAN)