The Edo State Security Network (ESSN) has arrested two suspects with large quantities of illicit drugs at different locations in Benin City.

The Commissioner for Public Security and Safety, Festus Ebea, disclosed this in a statement yesterday, identifying the suspects as Efosa Uyi and Stella Thompson.

Ebea said the arrests reflected the state government’s determination to rid Edo of illicit drug activities. He listed the substances recovered from the suspects as Indian hemp, crystal methamphetamine, popularly known as Ice, Colorado, Canadian Loud, and Scottish Loud.

According to him, the suspects would be handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further prosecution.

“We have arrested two suspects at different points in Benin and primarily will hand them over to NDLEA. We are working very hard to assist the drug agency to get rid of those engaged in drug activities in the state,” he said.

Suspects with recovered illicit drugs

He added that the suspects were arrested on Friday, May 29, 2026, with large quantities of illicit drugs.

Ebea warned drug dealers and users to stay away from Edo State, stressing that the government would continue to clamp down on drug-related activities.

“We are not relenting in combing the state and getting drug addicts and those trading in illicit drugs off the state. We are using this medium to warn those selling and dealing in illicit drugs to stop, as the state will not be safe for them,” he said.

The commissioner also urged youths to avoid drug abuse, saying it had no positive impact on their lives and often led to criminal activities.

“To save our youth from these illicit drugs, we have to arrest those selling and distributing these drugs in society. Hence, these ones have been arrested and brought before the media,” he added.

Ebea called on journalists to follow up the case to ensure justice is served and to deter others from engaging in drug-related offences. (Guardian)

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