NDLEA launches special squads to combat drug trade in Abuja
In a proactive move to tackle the rampant open sale and consumption of illicit drugs in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has initiated the deployment of special squads. This initiative, spearheaded by Mr. Kabiru Tsakuwa, Commander of Narcotics (CN) at NDLEA’s FCT Command, aims to disrupt notorious drug joints, apprehend dealers, seize narcotics, and prosecute offenders.
“FCT presents unique challenges due to its international airport, serving as a gateway for drugs from various source countries, including East Africa,” remarked Tsakuwa. Despite rigorous interdiction efforts at the airport, drugs still manage to infiltrate the capital. The socio-economic landscape of Abuja, with affluent neighborhoods adjacent to impoverished slums, provides ample opportunities for drug peddlers to operate.
Tsakuwa emphasized NDLEA’s dual approach of “Drug Supply Reduction” and “Drug Demand Reduction.” To bolster these efforts, specialized squads have been mobilized to act swiftly on actionable intelligence, targeting drug hotspots and apprehending culprits. Additionally, NDLEA leverages community partnerships to gather vital intelligence and intensifies awareness campaigns in schools, religious institutions, and public spaces.
“We’re collaborating closely with park managements and the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) to share information and sensitize the public,” Tsakuwa added. Furthermore, NDLEA has fortified its patrols along major entry points into the FCT, such as Abaji-Lokoja Road and Gwagwalada-Kwali Road, to stem the influx of illicit substances.
The impact of NDLEA’s initiatives is already evident, with a noticeable increase in arrests, drug seizures, and community engagement. As the agency continues its mission to create a drug-free environment in Abuja, it remains committed to ongoing sensitization efforts, strategic collaborations, and proactive enforcement measures.
Through the concerted efforts of NDLEA and the support of the community, the fight against drug trafficking and abuse in the nation’s capital is gaining momentum, promising a safer and healthier future for all residents.
