By Rabiu Doma,Nasarawa
The Nasarawa state commander of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency has raised alarm over the rising spate of in-take of hard drugs and increase in cannabis farming in the state
The state commander, Sumaila Ethan stated this while briefing journalist at the command office in Lafia commemorating this year’s United Nations International Day Against Drug Abuse of Illicit Trafficking.
He further disclosed that the agency convicted 15 drug barons and suspects in its first and second quarter of 2014. The commander said that 69kg of assorted drugs were found on the suspect.
Adding that the agency counseled 99 suspects, that the agency is committed towards the sensitization of the populace against the emerging drug problem in the state as well mobilizing support and participation of the populace in the program.
Sumaila Ethan said the objective of the advocacy was to encourage the populace to support local initiatives in drug control as well draw attention to the dangers inherent in the illicit sales and consumption of drugs likewise to encourage the populace to live a healthy life styles devoid of drug.
“It pertinent to reveal that the alarming increase in the consumption and distribution of addictive substances in Nasarawa state “He listed some of the hard drugs predominantly consumed in the state to include
Rubber solution,benylin syrup,tramadol,suck and die, Indian Hemp,Petrol,Methylated spirit, opiates were recovered, while commenting on the progressive report of the agency in the state, He stated that the agency clampdown on a 0.54 Piece of cannabis farmland, Adding that farm owner has since been convicted.
The commander appealed to the Government of Nasarawa state to support the agency in her effort towards combating crime in the state, He enumerated some of the challenges of the NDLEA to lack of operational vehicle .
