The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, has seized 7,590 tons of illicit drugs and substances worth over N800 billion and arrested 42,105 drug offenders in three years across the country.

NDLEA Chairman and CEO, Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa (retd), made this known when the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen Christopher Musa, visited the NDLEA headquarters on Monday in Abuja.

Marwa said illicit drugs are linked to criminalities, especially terrorism, kidnapping, and insurgency.

“They all rely on drugs before carrying out their nefarious activities; this is why NDLEA has been very ferocious and aggressive in denying the criminals access to illicit substances,” he added.

According to him, the NDLEA has also destroyed 1,057 hectares of cannabis farms within the period and secured the conviction of 8, 350 offenders.

He also added that 29,400 drug users have been counselled and rehabilitated within the same period.

“In about three years, we have arrested 42,105 drug offenders, including 46 barons. We have seized no fewer than 7, 590 tons of drugs and this is worth about N800 billion,” Marwa told Gen Musa.

He commended the armed forces for their diligence, loyalty, commitment, sacrifice, and gallantry in keeping the nation safe and the unwavering support given to NDLEA.

This, he said, was in the area of arms and ammunition and the training of officers and men of the agency.