The Edo State Taskforce on Public Safety has arrested seven suspected drug dealers during coordinated raids across Uromi, Ubiaja, and Auchi in Edo Central and Edo North Senatorial Districts. Among those detained is a breastfeeding mother.

The suspects, comprising three men and four women, were paraded in Benin City on Wednesday following intelligence-led operations targeting known drug hubs. Commissioner for Public Safety and Security, Festus Ebea, said the raids recovered quantities of illicit drugs, serving as “incontrovertible evidence” of the suspects’ involvement in distribution.

“Our youths are increasingly being lured into drug abuse, which fuels deviant behaviour and criminal activities,” Ebea stated, adding that the government is committed to dismantling all drug networks across the state.

The Taskforce Chairman, CSP Michael Anetor, reiterated that operations will continue until Edo State is safe, secure, and drug-free, in line with Governor Monday Okpebholo’s directive. The suspects will be profiled and handed over to relevant agencies for prosecution.

Ebea warned other criminals involved in the trade to desist immediately, stressing that narcotics destabilize communities and threaten public safety.