Massive NDLEA Sweep in Bayelsa: 600 Busted with 621kg of Illicit Drugs 

In a major crackdown on narcotics, the
National Drug Law Enforcement Agency  (NDLEA) in Bayelsa says it intercepted over 621kg of illegal substances and detained 600 offenders in 2025. 

Briefing journalists in Yenagoa on Wednesday, State Commander Kanu Sunny Chukwuemeka noted that the crackdown—which snared 407 males and 193 females—targeted high-traffic areas including bars, hotels, and transport hubs used by traffickers.

 “The command in the year under review embarked on a series of undercover operations, motorised patrols, and raids as efforts aimed at cutting down the supply and reducing the demand for drugs.

“The breakdown is as follows: number of male suspects — 407; number of female suspects — 193; total number of persons arrested — 600. The total weight of drugs seized is 621.556 kilogrammes,” he announced.

Chukwuemeka said the agency confiscated 51,445 tablets and capsules, 658 injection ampoules, and 224 bottles of codeine containing psychotropic substances and opioids.

He noted that a combined mixture of cannabis sativa and alcohol, popularly known as monkey tail, koskorin, or wisdom wine, remained the most commonly abused substance in the state.

“A combined mixture of cannabis sativa and alcohol measuring 435.055 litres and weighing 365.53 kilogrammes is the most prevalent substance abused in Bayelsa State in 2025,” he said.

Commander Chukwuemeka revealed a troubling demographic trend – young adults aged 21 to 25 represent the largest group of drug abusers in Bayelsa.

The street value of the year’s seizures is estimated at over ₦64.7 million. Geographically, the state capital, Yenagoa, led with 407 arrests, followed by Ogbia Local Government Area with 79.

On the legal front, the command filed 20 cases at the Federal High Court in Yenagoa, securing eight convictions.

Beyond enforcement, the agency’s “health-first” approach saw 621 individuals referred for counseling and 34 successfully rehabilitated. 

The Commander, however, expressed deep concern over the surge in “Monkey Tail” (cannabis-alcohol mixtures), noting that more residents are failing drug integrity tests due to the potent concoction.