Nigeria’s anti-narcotics agency has intensified its nationwide crackdown on illicit drugs, arresting three persons living with disabilities for alleged involvement in drug trafficking operations across multiple states.
The arrests were carried out by operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) during coordinated operations in Anambra and Kwara states, according to an official statement released on Sunday.
The agency disclosed that one of the suspects is a 60-year-old man, highlighting what authorities describe as a growing trend of diverse individuals being recruited into the illegal drug trade.
In a separate operation, NDLEA officers uncovered a large-scale cannabis storage facility in the Lekki area of Lagos State. The raid led to the recovery of approximately 4,000 parcels of a potent cannabis strain commonly referred to as “Loud.”
The seized drugs reportedly weighed over 2,300 kilograms, with an estimated street value exceeding ₦5.8 billion.
NDLEA Arrests Three Persons with Disabilities in Drug Trafficking Crackdown Newspapers
Officials described the discovery as one of the most significant seizures in recent months, underscoring the scale and sophistication of drug trafficking networks operating within the country.
Beyond the stash house, NDLEA operatives also dismantled a facility allegedly used for producing “skuchies,” a locally abused psychoactive mixture. The development signals continued efforts by the agency to disrupt both distribution and production channels.
The NDLEA spokesperson, Femi Babafemi, confirmed that the operations were part of ongoing nationwide enforcement actions targeting drug syndicates and supply chains.
While providing details of the operations, Babafemi emphasized the agency’s commitment to curbing the spread of illicit drugs across Nigeria.
He noted that recent arrests reflect the agency’s strategy of targeting all levels of the drug trade, from producers to distributors and couriers.
“The arrests and seizures are part of sustained efforts to dismantle drug networks,” the statement indicated.
Security analysts say the involvement of vulnerable groups, including elderly individuals and persons with disabilities, points to evolving tactics by criminal networks seeking to evade detection.
Recent enforcement data also suggests that drug trafficking operations are becoming increasingly widespread, with raids conducted across several states and involving suspects from different age groups and backgrounds.
The NDLEA has reiterated its resolve to sustain pressure on drug traffickers through intelligence-driven operations, surveillance, and inter-agency collaboration.
Authorities say the latest arrests and seizures serve as a warning to those involved in the illicit drug trade, as enforcement actions continue to expand nationwide.
