NDLEA arrests 39 suspected drug peddlers in Rivers
NDLEA arrests 39 suspected drug peddlers in Rivers as part of a sustained crackdown on illicit drug activities in the state, with authorities intensifying enforcement efforts to curb trafficking and abuse.
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Rivers State Command, disclosed that the arrests were made between December 2025 and March 2026 during a series of targeted operations across the state.
According to the state commander, Bature Dawa, the agency apprehended 39 suspected drug peddlers, including three females, in what he described as a significant step in the fight against drug-related crimes. 
Breakdown of Arrests and Seizures
NDLEA arrests 39 suspected drug peddlers in Rivers with detailed figures showing the scope of the operation.
Authorities confirmed that:
• 36 of the suspects are male, while three are female
• 14.83 kilograms of illicit drugs were recovered
• multiple drug types were seized during raids 
These seizures reflect the continued presence of illicit drug networks operating within the state.
The agency also confirmed that 12 suspects have already been convicted, while 16 cases are currently being prosecuted, indicating progress beyond arrests into the judicial phase. 
Strategic Crackdown on Drug Networks
NDLEA arrests 39 suspected drug peddlers in Rivers as part of a coordinated enforcement strategy.
Officials said operations were carried out through:
• intelligence-led raids
• surveillance activities
• coordinated enforcement across communities
The agency’s Drug Supply Control Unit focused on dismantling trafficking networks, while the Drug Demand Reduction Unit worked on awareness and prevention.
This dual approach reflects a broader national strategy aimed at both reducing supply and addressing demand.
Link Between Drugs and Crime
NDLEA arrests 39 suspected drug peddlers in Rivers amid growing concerns about the connection between drug abuse and criminal activity.
Security experts have repeatedly warned that drug trafficking contributes to:
• violent crime
• cultism
• youth delinquency
Authorities say tackling drug distribution is essential to maintaining public safety and reducing crime rates.
https://ogelenews.ng/ndlea-arrests-39-suspected-drug-peddlers
Government Reaction and Support
NDLEA arrests 39 suspected drug peddlers in Rivers with the state government commending the agency’s efforts.
During a courtesy visit by the NDLEA leadership, the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Dagogo Wokoma, praised federal agencies for their collaboration in maintaining security.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the Rivers State Government to:
• support law enforcement agencies
• promote peace and stability
• encourage law-abiding behaviour among residents 
Public Advisory and Community Role
NDLEA arrests 39 suspected drug peddlers in Rivers alongside a strong call for community involvement.
The agency urged:
• parents to monitor their children
• hotel operators to prevent drug-related activities in their facilities
• residents to report suspicious behaviour
Officials emphasised that community cooperation is critical in sustaining the fight against drug abuse.
Focus on Youth and Prevention
NDLEA arrests 39 suspected drug peddlers in Rivers while also pushing preventive measures.
The agency advocated:
• drug integrity tests in schools
• monitoring within the NYSC scheme
• increased awareness campaigns
These measures are aimed at addressing drug abuse at its roots, particularly among young people.
Broader Implications for Security
NDLEA arrests 39 suspected drug peddlers in Rivers as part of a wider national effort to tackle drug-related threats.
Across Nigeria, the NDLEA has intensified operations in recent years, focusing on:
• major drug trafficking networks
• local distribution hubs
• cross-border smuggling
Experts say sustained enforcement is key to weakening drug networks and improving public safety.
Looking Ahead
NDLEA arrests 39 suspected drug peddlers in Rivers, but authorities say the fight is far from over.
The agency plans to:
• expand enforcement operations
• strengthen prosecution of offenders
• deepen public awareness campaigns
For now, the arrests represent a significant step in ongoing efforts to curb drug trafficking and protect communities in Rivers State.
https://punchng.com/ndlea-arrests-39-suspected-drug-peddlers-in-rivers
