The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Rivers State Command, says it arrested 242 suspected drug offenders and secured 61 convictions between January and June 2026 as part of its efforts to combat drug trafficking and abuse in the state.
Speaking during a press briefing in Port Harcourt to mark the 2026 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, the State Commander, Offor Kenneth Onyeso, disclosed that operatives also seized 146.181 kilograms of various illicit substances within the six-month period.
According to Onyeso, the command counselled and released 69 drug users, while 23 others underwent rehabilitation at the NDLEA Rehabilitation Centre. He added that 82 drug-related cases are currently pending before the Federal High Court.
The commander attributed the growing challenge of drug abuse and illicit trafficking to factors such as poverty and family instability, noting that the agency’s operations are driven by two key strategies—supply reduction and demand reduction.
He said the command has stepped up public enlightenment campaigns in schools, markets and other public places to educate residents on the dangers of drug abuse and trafficking.
Despite the achievements, Onyeso identified the unwillingness of members of the public to provide credible intelligence as the biggest challenge hindering the fight against illicit drugs.
