The Edo State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has arrested a married couple after uncovering a large stash of illicit drugs during a raid on a warehouse in Benin City.
The operation, carried out along Sapele Road, led to the seizure of more than 412 kilograms of illegal drugs, including skunk cannabis and Canadian Loud, in what authorities described as a significant breakthrough in the fight against drug trafficking in the state.
Couple Arrested During Warehouse Raid
According to the Edo State Commander of the NDLEA, Dr. Mitchell Ofoyeju, the suspects were identified as Christian Chukwuka, 32, and Nwanneka Christian, 33.
The commander said the couple, who are natives of Ndokwa, Delta State, were arrested after intelligence reports linked them to alleged large-scale drug distribution activities in Benin City.
Security operatives reportedly stormed the warehouse following credible intelligence and recovered large quantities of narcotic substances believed to have been prepared for distribution.
More Than 412 Kilograms of Illegal Drugs Recovered
During the operation, NDLEA officials recovered different types of illicit drugs with a combined weight of over 412 kilograms.
| Recovered Drug | Quantity | Weight |
|---|---|---|
| Skunk Cannabis | 22 bags | 219.5 kg |
| Canadian Loud (Compressed Blocks) | Several blocks | 192.67 kg |
| Total | — | 412.17 kg |
Officials described the seizure as one of the major drug interceptions recorded by the command in recent months.
NDLEA Raises Concern Over Drug Trafficking
Speaking on the operation, Dr. Ofoyeju said the discovery underscores the growing threat posed by illegal drug trafficking and distribution networks operating within Edo State.
He explained that the successful raid followed actionable intelligence on the activities of the suspects and resulted in the dismantling of a warehouse allegedly being used to store large quantities of prohibited substances.
The NDLEA commander added that the operation reflects the agency’s continued efforts to curb drug-related crimes and reduce the circulation of illicit drugs across the state.
Suspect Blames Poverty and Unemployment
During preliminary investigations, one of the suspects, Christian Chukwuka, reportedly admitted his involvement and attributed his actions to financial hardship and unemployment.
According to the NDLEA, the suspect said he is a secondary school graduate who trained as a truck driver but struggled to secure stable employment.
He reportedly stated that a friend introduced him to drug trafficking after he was unable to find work, adding that the responsibility of providing for his wife and their twin children pushed him into the illegal business.
He also reportedly expressed regret over his actions and appealed for another opportunity to rebuild his life.
Suspects to Face Prosecution
The NDLEA confirmed that both suspects remain in custody while investigations continue.
The agency said the couple will be formally charged in court once investigations into the case have been concluded.
The latest arrest forms part of the NDLEA’s ongoing nationwide crackdown on drug trafficking networks and illegal narcotics distribution across Nigeria.
