The Edo State Command of the National Drugs Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) conducted an operation on Friday to destroy eight hectares of cannabis sativa farms in the state. These farms were located in Upokhoten forest, Uzzebba village, in Owan West Local Government Area.
The operation was carried out by the command’s operatives, who were led on a three-hour journey to the farms. The cannabis plantations were cut down and set ablaze during the operation.
Mr. Ondotimi Bebetu, the command’s Assistant Commander in charge of Operations and spokesperson, revealed that the destruction followed an intelligence-led surveillance that led to the arrest of three suspects two weeks prior. The total estimated amount of cannabis sativa destroyed was approximately 17.4 tons, valued at millions of naira.
Bebetu emphasized that the public should provide information on how to locate such farmlands to help curb the cultivation of cannabis. He also mentioned that the arrested suspects would undergo a discreet investigation before being handed over to the legal unit for further advice on possible prosecution.
Mr. James Olarewaju, Assistant Commander of Narcotics, Intelligence, expressed concern that Edo State has become a hotspot for cannabis plantations, leading to year-round farming in the area. The command is committed to breaking the supply chain of the substance by focusing on farm destruction rather than chasing after sellers.
One of the suspects arrested on the farm, Monday Nduul, stated that he was hired to help with weeding on the farm and was unaware that it was a cannabis plantation.