The Chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (Retd) on Wednesday said the agency has already, in the first two weeks of 2023, “taken down three major drug cartels” in Nigeria.
POLITICS NIGERIA reports that according to Marwa, one of the drug cartels has built extensive networks across the globe, while at least six of their kingpins are presently in the NDLEA’s custody, adding that details will be provided in the coming days.
The NDLEA boss warned that unrepentant drug barons and cartels will face tougher times in 2023 if they fail to back out of the illicit drug business.
Marwa gave the warning at a press briefing at the NDLEA national headquarters, Abuja, to update the public on efforts by the Agency to rid the country of illicit substance abuse and drug trafficking on the second anniversary of his leadership of the anti-narcotics body.
He said: “I issued a New Year appeal to them and also warned that those who refused to heed the warning will find themselves in a difficult situation.
“Already, we have 34 barons in our net and they are facing the music in court.
“We have secured orders for the temporary forfeiture of their assets.
“With our prosecution being topnotch, 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 again 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. The details you will get to know in the coming days.”
