The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has arrested 262 suspected drug offenders between November 2025 and May 2026 as part of its intensified efforts against narcotics distribution in Cross River State. According to the State Commander, Anteyi John, the arrests comprised 207 males and 55 females.
Operatives also seized large quantities of illicit substances during this period, including cannabis (6,397.59095kg), cocaine (60.4g), heroin (20.17g), methamphetamine (778.64g), and psychotropic substances (166.36673kg). The total quantity seized is 6,575.009kg.
In addition to the arrests and seizures, the agency destroyed eight hectares of cannabis farms in Uyanga community on April 7 and April 25, 2026, as part of efforts to disrupt cultivation networks. The operations were aimed at "cutting off local supply chains and discouraging farmers from engaging in drug cultivation."
The NDLEA has secured 28 convictions, with 132 cases pending before the High Court and 61 others charged. The agency's counselling and rehabilitation unit has also supported 138 persons.
As part of its War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) initiative, the agency carried out 99 sensitisation programmes across schools, communities, and workplaces, reaching 156,556 people.
The NDLEA is urging collective action to curb drug abuse in Cross River State.