The Adamawa State Commander of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Agboalu Femi Samson, disclosed a new method employed by drug barons to evade detection: concealing cocaine in the soles of shoes.
This innovative smuggling technique was highlighted during a weekend briefing to journalists, marking the commencement of activities for this year’s World Drug Day.
Samson shared that operatives of the Adamawa NDLEA command had intercepted 1.9 tons of cannabis sativa, alongside 15 grams of cocaine and other illicit substances over the past year. The agency’s intensified efforts have not only led to substantial drug seizures but also to the conviction of 148 drug offenders, including 145 men and three women. The convicted criminals received sentences ranging from six months to ten years.
“Through credible intelligence, we’ve discovered traffickers using shoe sole compartments to hide grams of cocaine,” Samson explained, showcasing examples of the sophisticated concealment methods. This innovative tactic highlights the constant need for vigilance and advanced detection techniques in the fight against drug trafficking.
In addition to drug seizures, the NDLEA secured the forfeiture of several assets linked to drug trafficking. This includes the final forfeiture of four vehicles, the interim forfeiture of three additional vehicles, and a three-room house located in Ngurore, Yola South LGA. Financially, the agency has recovered N851,153, which has been deposited into the Treasury Single Account.
The Adamawa NDLEA command has also made significant strides in drug demand reduction.
Samson reported that 107 residential clients have been treated, counseled, and rehabilitated, while 222 trafficking clients have received brief intervention counselling.
The command’s sensitization program has reached over 47,372 individuals across schools, communities, workplaces, and faith-based organizations.
As part of the World Drug Day activities, the command will embark on an advocacy walk against drug abuse, urging stakeholders to reflect on this year’s theme: investing in prevention. This holistic approach underscores the importance of community engagement and preventive measures in tackling the drug menace.
The Adamawa NDLEA’s efforts exemplify a comprehensive strategy that combines enforcement, asset forfeiture, rehabilitation, and community education to combat drug trafficking and abuse effectively.
