NDLEA Seizes Over 1.9 Million Kilograms of Illicit Drugs, Arrests 222 Suspects in Abia

he National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Abia State Command, has announced a massive haul of approximately 1.94 million kilograms of illicit drugs and the arrest of 222 suspects over the past year. The impressive figures were disclosed by the Acting Commander of NDLEA, Abia Command, Mr. Chigbu Odoemelam Chilee, during a press briefing in Aba as part of activities commemorating the 2025 United Nations Day Against Drug Abuse.

Speaking on the command’s efforts in combating drug trafficking and abuse from June 2024 to June 2025, Chilee highlighted the scale of the drug problem in the state. “For the past one year, we have seized one million and ninety-four kilograms of illicit drugs,” Chilee stated, clarifying that the actual weight exceeded the initial million-kilogram estimate.

The seized narcotics include a wide array of dangerous substances such as cannabis sativa, heroin, cocaine, diazepam, codeine, and particularly, a significant quantity of methamphetamine, locally known as ‘mkpurummiri,’ which he identified as the most prevalent drug in the state.

Chilee elaborated on the agency’s dual-pronged approach to the drug war, focusing on “supply reduction” through aggressive interdiction and seizures, and “demand reduction” through extensive sensitization campaigns and rehabilitation efforts. He noted that Abia Command boasts one of the best rehabilitation facilities in the country, given the number of clients and successful rehabilitation records. He also acknowledged Governor Alex Otti’s support, including the provision of a vehicle and plans for a new rehabilitation center in Umuahia.

The Acting Commander identified Aba and Umuahia as major flashpoints for illicit drug business within Abia State. Despite the considerable seizures and arrests, he emphasized that the sheer volume of cases and individuals seeking rehabilitation underscore the immense challenge the state faces in drug abuse and trafficking.

Chilee reiterated that the NDLEA cannot win the drug war alone and called for intensified collaboration from all segments of society, including families, community leaders, and the newly inaugurated State Drug Committee. He assured Abia residents of reinvigorated operational strategies aimed at making the state inhospitable for illicit drug dealers and fostering a drug-free environment.