By Blessing Bature
The Plateau State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA has announced the seizure of more than 9.4 tonnes of illicit drugs and the arrest of 1,587 suspects for drug-related offences between July 2025 and June 2026.
The State Commander, Anthony Gotar disclosed the figures on Thursday during a press briefing in Jos to commemorate the 2026 United Nations International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
The event was held under the theme, “The World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges and Innovative Responses.”
Gotar said NDLEA operatives intercepted a total of 9,488.186 kilogrammes of assorted illicit drugs and controlled substances during operations conducted across Plateau State within the one-year period.
According to him, the seizures significantly disrupted drug trafficking networks and prevented dangerous substances from reaching communities.
“The Command successfully seized 9,488.186 kilogrammes of assorted illicit drugs and controlled substances across various operations within the state. These actions have weakened drug distribution channels and curtailed the circulation of harmful substances,” he said.
The commander further revealed that 1,587 suspects, comprising both men and women, were arrested for offences linked to drug trafficking and abuse during the review period.
“A total of 1,587 suspects were apprehended for various drug-related crimes. Investigations were carried out in line with the NDLEA Act and other applicable laws,” Gotar stated.
Beyond narcotics enforcement, the agency recorded significant recoveries of arms and ammunition, which Gotar said underscored the connection between illicit drug activities and other criminal enterprises.
The recovered items included 486 rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition, 12 rounds of 9mm ammunition, three locally made pistols and two pump-action guns. Four suspects linked to the weapons were arrested and subsequently handed over to relevant security agencies for further investigation.
“These recoveries highlight the increasing overlap between drug trafficking and other forms of criminality. The suspects and exhibits have been transferred to the appropriate authorities for necessary action,” he added.
On prosecution efforts, the commander disclosed that 71 offenders were convicted and sentenced during the period, while several other cases remain before the Federal High Court in Jos.
He also noted that the command intensified intelligence-driven raids on major drug hotspots across the state, including Ojukwu Street, the Congo-Russia axis, Kugiya, Zawan, Ungwan Doki, Rayfield, Mai-Adiko, Bukuru Park, Gold and Base.
He said the operations resulted in the dismantling of notorious drug dens and distribution centres, the arrest of traffickers and users, and the confiscation of illicit substances.
“Several notorious drug joints, black spots and distribution centres were successfully dismantled. These operations led to arrests, seizures and the disruption of illegal drug networks,” he said.
In addition to enforcement activities, the NDLEA maintained its focus on rehabilitation and public awareness initiatives.
