NDLEA Makes 303 Kush Arrests In A Year

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has made significant strides in combating drug-related issues, reporting over 465 arrests and prosecutions since 2024, with 372 male and 93 female individuals apprehended.

While cannabis remains the most common substance involved (83 arrests), a concerning trend is the rise of kush-related cases, accounting for 303 arrests. This is particularly alarming given that kush is not yet on the scheduled drugs list due to its complex and harmful composition.

The agency also noted 24 cocaine, 5 heroin, and 33 tramadol-related arrests, and a rising use of ecstasy.

These statistics highlight a shifting landscape in drug abuse, with the increasing prevalence of kush posing a unique challenge for law enforcement and public health. The high number of kush-related arrests, despite its unscheduled status, underscores the urgent need for a re-evaluation of drug classifications to effectively address emerging threats.

In terms of rehabilitation, approximately 450 individuals have completed the process, led by the Ministry of Social Welfare with NDLEA support. The agency emphasizes that there is no specific cure for drug addiction; rather, treatment focuses on managing the condition and reducing cravings.

The director, Ibrahim Samuel Dugba, stressed that substances like kush cause "brain-killing disease," and rehabilitation for victims is a multi-stage process. This emphasizes the long-term and intensive nature of recovery, particularly for new and highly potent substances.

The NDLEA's ongoing efforts in both enforcement and rehabilitation are critical in addressing the complex and evolving challenge of drug abuse in the country.