LARGE HAUL: NDLEA impounds N4bn codeine-laced syrup in Rivers

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Rivers State said it seized a shipment of codeine-laced cough syrup worth about ₦4bn in Rivers State in the last two weeks.

The Commander of the Agency at Onne Port, Stella Ngwoke, while speaking during an event to commemorate the 2024 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking at her command on Wednesday, said the feat indicated a significant demand and supply in the state.

She then called for the support of relevant stakeholders, to combat the abuse of cough syrup containing codeine as a psychoactive substance.

According to her, the misuse of such substances is prevalent among youths between the ages of 15 to 24.

This is as the Federal Government on Wednesday, pledged to mobilise funds in support of the NDLEA fight against drug abuse and trafficking in the country.

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, while representing President Bola Tinubu to mark this year’s celebration, at the banquet hall in Abuja, assured of the government’s willingness to assist the agency, in reducing the statistics of people who abuse drugs and substances in the country, by mobilising funds for the agency.

President said, “I enjoin all and sundry to support the War Against Drug Abuse initiative, otherwise known as the WADA campaign, launched by NDLEA three years ago. I commend and urge everyone to redouble efforts to combat drug abuse and trafficking in the country.

“On this score, I wish to reassure you of this administration’s support. The Renewed Hope Agenda places the youth at the centre of its focus. Therefore, we ensure that our young people are protected from anything that could derail their future or destroy their potential.”

The President also called for the prioritisation of evidence-based prevention strategies for drugs in the country.