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The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has reported the destruction of 30 hectares of cannabis sativa, commonly referred to as Indian hemp, in a forest located in the Odukpani local government area of Cross River.
The state commander of the NDLEA, Rachel Umebuali, made this announcement during an interview on Saturday in Calabar.
She mentioned that several suspects were apprehended in connection with the destroyed plantation and expressed concern that local residents were shielding the drug traffickers.
Umebuali stated that 163.9 kg of cannabis sativa seeds were seized from the plantation.
In total, the command confiscated 6,716.8 kg of illicit drugs from January to June. Breaking down the figures, she revealed that 2,935 kg of cannabis sativa was seized during this six-month period.
Other substances included 129.6 kg of methamphetamine, 82.7 kg of psychotropic drugs, 33.3 liters of a cannabis mixture, 47.7 kg of cocaine, 32.3 kg of heroin, 69.7 kg of opioids and barbiturates, as well as 5 grams of ecstasy.
Umebuali noted that 191 individuals were arrested during the same timeframe.
“Fifteen individuals were convicted for various offenses during the review period,” she added.
She expressed concern that many of the drug vendors are not residents of the state.
“They come here and pay locals to safeguard them by withholding information about their illegal activities.” Umebuali also mentioned that, with the strong support of the state first lady, Mrs. Eyoanwan Otu, the command successfully held this year’s drug awareness day, themed “The Evidence is Clear: Invest In Prevention.”
Additionally, “We have maintained various advocacy programs across institutions in the state, aiming to curb drug abuse in society. Between January and June this year, we engaged in 191 sensitization activities in schools, markets, churches, mosques, and non-governmental organizations,” she stated. Umebuali concluded by noting that the command faces challenges related to underfunding and logistics.
