President Bola Tinubu has commended the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), for dismantling a major trans-border drug network involving Nigerian and Mexican cartels, operating within the country.
The President praised the Agency following a major operation that led to the arrest of foreign nationals, local drug kingpins and other collaborators linked to the illegal drug syndicate.
According to a statement issued by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the operation also resulted in the seizure of chemicals and illicit drugs valued at more than 360 million dollars.
Chairman of the NDLEA, Mohammed Buba Marwa, had on Wednesday announced the breakthrough, describing it as the outcome of weeks of intelligence gathering and coordinated operations carried out in collaboration with international partners.
President Tinubu said the success of the operation demonstrated the professionalism, courage and commitment of NDLEA operatives in protecting society from the dangers of narcotics and organised crime.
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The President also warned against complacency in the fight against drug trafficking, noting that West Africa has increasingly become a major transit hub for cocaine, synthetic drugs and unregulated pharmaceuticals destined for Europe and North America.
He added that the growing drug trade poses not only a security threat to the region, but also endangers the future of many young people who have become victims of substance abuse and trafficking networks.
President Tinubu further called on Nigerians to support security agencies by remaining vigilant and reporting suspicious activities within their communities.
He stressed that the successful operation sends a strong signal that organised crime and criminality will not be tolerated anywhere in the country and that those responsible will face the full weight of the law.
Editor: Ken Eseni
