The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, Rivers State Command, has arrested 39 suspected drug traffickers and secured 12 convictions within a four-month period as part of intensified efforts to combat illicit drug activities.
The State Commander, Bature Dawa, disclosed this during a courtesy visit to the Secretary to the Rivers State Government, Dr. Dagogo Wokoma, in Port Harcourt.
According to Dawa, the arrests were made between December 2025 and March 2026, with 36 males and three females among those apprehended.
“About 39 suspected drug peddlers have been arrested within the period under review,” he said. “Out of this number, 36 are male while three are female.”
He added that operatives also seized approximately 14.83 kilograms of various illicit substances during the operations.
“We also seized about 14.83 kilograms of different kinds of drugs. Within the same period, we secured 12 convictions, while 16 new cases have been filed and are currently under investigation,” Dawa stated.
The NDLEA boss noted that the agency had strengthened its enforcement strategies through its Drug Demand Reduction and Drug Supply Control units to curb drug abuse and trafficking in the state.
He further urged parents and guardians to be more vigilant about their children’s activities and warned hospitality business operators against allowing their facilities to be used for illegal drug-related dealings.
“There is a need for collective responsibility. Parents must monitor their wards closely, and hotel operators should ensure their premises are not used for criminal activities,” he said.
Dawa also advocated the introduction of drug integrity tests in schools and within the National Youth Service Corps scheme as part of preventive measures against substance abuse among youths.
Responding, the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Dagogo Wokoma, commended the agency’s efforts and reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to supporting security agencies.
“Our administration appreciates the collaboration of federal agencies working to maintain peace and safety,” he said. “The government remains committed to policies and initiatives that promote social order and sustainable development.”
He also urged residents, particularly young people, to avoid drug abuse and other criminal activities.
“Respect for the law is essential for good governance. I encourage our youths to stay away from drugs, crime, and reckless behaviour,” Wokoma added.
In a related development, the state government reiterated its support for road safety enforcement, calling on residents to obey traffic regulations and prioritise the safety of all road users.
