Chairman and Chief Executive of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig Gen Mohamed Marwa (Rtd), announced on Wednesday that the agency’s strategy of targeting the assets of drug barons and traffickers is a key element of its ongoing offensive against illicit drugs and cartels.
At a press conference in Abuja marking the start of a week-long celebration of the 2024 International Day Against Drugs and Illicit Trafficking, Marwa detailed the successes of the NDLEA’s aggressive stance since its launch in January 2021. He noted significant arrests and prosecutions, including two serial traffickers who received life sentences in April, and praised the agency’s thorough investigations and solid legal cases bolstered by the Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA 2022).
“Apart from conviction, the assets of the convicts used as instruments of crime or the proceeds derived from crime would be forfeited to the federal government,” Marwa explained. He emphasized that civil action can be taken against assets suspected to be proceeds of crime, placing the burden of proving legitimate ownership on the defendant.
Marwa, represented by NDLEA Secretary Mr. Shadrach Haruna, also highlighted the agency’s drug demand reduction efforts. The flagship program, War Against Drug Abuse (WADA), utilizes a comprehensive societal approach to prevention, aligning with the 2024 World Drug Day theme, “The Evidence is Clear: Invest in Prevention.” Marwa underscored the importance of preventing initial drug experimentation and subsequent dependency.
The week-long activities include a Juma’at Service at the National Mosque on June 21, a Walk Against Drugs in collaboration with MTN on June 22, a thanksgiving church service at the National Christian Centre on June 23, the grand finale of the NDLEA secondary school essay competition on June 24, and NGO Day activities. The commemoration will culminate on June 26 with an event at the State House Conference Centre to unveil new global policies against illicit drugs.
Marwa expressed gratitude to the federal and state governments, UNODC, and various international and domestic partners for their support. UNODC Country Deputy Representative, Mr. Danilo Campisi, urged increased investment in preventive measures to address a projected 40% rise in drug use in Africa by 2030, emphasizing the need for scientific, evidence-based approaches to prevention and treatment.
