The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, Lagos State Command, said it had arrested 584 persons for drug-related offences and seized 14, 196.800kg of hard drugs in Lagos State alone.

The agency’s State Commander, Barr. Ralph Igwenagu, disclosed this at the celebration of the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, on Tuesday, June 23, vanguard reported. 

Report says, the arrest was made within one year, adding that the command had also secured the conviction of 144 defendants, who were consequently sentenced with various jail terms, while 160 drug users were counseled and rehabilitated. 

According to the Commander, June 26th was set aside annually to enlighten the world on the dangers associated with drug trafficking and abuse.

He added that, on that day, nations of the world are expected to checkmate their responses in drug control, with a view to intensify their efforts in containing the societal effect of drug abuse and trafficking.

Speaking further on the importance of the event, Igwenagu said the theme of the year's event ‘Better Knowledge for Better Care’ was apt and timely, adding that it will highlight the world on current response to the current world drug challenge which requires better and informed knowledge of drug use disorders.

He added that drug use disorders are the result of a complex interplay of factors that are beyond the control of an individual.

He noted that the importance of educating people on the effects of drug abuse and trafficking can never be overemphasized, as the menace had become the root cause of some societal crisis emerging in the world at large. 

“It has destabilized families, truncated the promising future of the youths and has remained a negative force driving anti-social behaviour and the increasing deterioration of societal values and norms. The escalating wave of crime and criminality such as banditry, kidnapping, armed robbery, militancy, terrorism and other forms of societal decay which are challenges confronting us today are rooted in the pervasive consumption of drugs. 

The challenge is further compounded by the ever-increasing number of Psychoactive Substances of abuse and use of prescription drugs such as Tramadol, Cough syrup with Codeine, Rohypnol and the locally blended Skushi drink by youths between 18 and 35 years. This has become worrisome indeed”, Igwenagu stated.