By Fatima Zahra Muhammad
ASHENEWS reports that the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has warned drug barons operating in Nigeria that the agency will go tougher on them this year.
The chairman of the NDLEA, Buba Marwa disclosed this during a press briefing in Abuja O. Wednesday.
Marwa, who said that the agency will not relent in its efforts to break down the drug trafficking system in the country, noted that three major drug barons have been arrested since the beginning of 2023.
“Already, we have 34 barons in our net and they are facing the music in court. We have served orders for the temporary forfeiture of the assets.
“With our prosecution being top-notch, they can look forward to a long time in prison and final forfeiture of their wealth and assets.
“Those involved in the illicit drug trade should take a cue from our actions. They can look forward to a tough time this year.
“The signs are clear: we have already in the first two weeks of this year taken down three major drug cartels, one of which has built extensive networks across the world while at least six of their kingpins are in our custody as I speak,” he said.
According to Marwa, 3,733 suspects were convicted for various drug-related offenses within the last two years.
Out of this number, 2,346 were arrested in 2022 alone, Marwa said.
“This is the highest in the history of the agency and almost doubled the highest ever recorded in the 33 years of the NDLEA.”
He further warned that the agency will pay attention to the flow of proceeds made through drug trafficking in 2023 stating that “where we find any link between a drug baron and private citizens, we shall scrutinize their assets.”
