The Edo State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, in a combined operation with men of the Nigerian Army, has discovered a four-bedroom bungalow used as a cannabis warehouse in a residential building in the Illushi Community in Esan South East Local Government Area.

The state NDLEA Commander, Mitchell Ofoyeju, who disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday in Benin City, said the drugs have been confiscated while two suspects – Ojore Onweze, a 45-year-old male and 30-year-old George Agwumede were nabbed over their involvement.

Ofoyeju said that the seizure included 52 giant bags, three gallons of cannabis seeds and a bag of cannabis seeds.

He said the cannabis weighed 1,273kg with 86kg of cannabis seeds, totaling 1,359kg.

He said, “During the raid on a four-bedroom bungalow that was being used as a warehouse for storing large quantities of the illegal substance, skunk cannabis weighing 1,286kg and 86kg of cannabis seeds were seized and evacuated. Also, two suspected drug traffickers were apprehended.

“They are Ojore Onweze, a 45-year-old male caught in connection with 60 kg of cannabis, and 30-year-old George Agwumede nabbed over 13kg of cannabis.”

He expressed concerns over the use of residential houses in warehousing narcotic drugs, adding, “The use of residential houses in stockpiling illicit drugs is dangerous and must be vehemently confronted by citizens.

“These enemies of the state must not be allowed to destroy our communities. We are pleased with the operational successes recorded because the quantity is massive and impressive. This raid is a testament to our unwavering determination to dismantle the networks that seek to undermine our collective peace and safety.”

Ofoyeju stated that investigation into this drug operation is ongoing, with authorities working diligently to uncover connections and potential accomplices.

He said the NDLEA’s recent successes reflect a broader initiative to involve stakeholders, including community leaders, in the fight against drug abuse and trafficking, noting that children and other vulnerable groups must be protected.

“This fight is not just for NDLEA; it is a collective responsibility. We sincerely appreciate the Nigerian Army for the synergy and urge every citizen to take part in this campaign against drug abuse.

“We are resolute in our efforts to rid Edo State of this menace and will not relent until those responsible for trafficking and distributing illegal substances are brought to justice. Together, we can build a safer and healthier environment for current and future generations,” Ofoyeju added.