The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Cross River State has destroyed a large cannabis plantation in Uwet, Akamkpa Local Government Area, recovering 119 kilograms of hemp during the operation.
Mr. Peter Bisong, Deputy Commander of Narcotics at the NDLEA Cross River Command, disclosed this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Calabar on Monday.
Cannabis, a flowering plant used in the production of hemp fiber, is frequently abused for its psychoactive properties.
Bisong confirmed that one suspect had been arrested in connection with the illegal farm, adding that the operation was carried out in collaboration with troops of the Nigerian Army 13 Brigade.
According to him, the raid followed credible intelligence provided by members of the public about unlawful cannabis cultivation in the area.
“The farm is about six hectares in size, the street value of the drug destroyed in the farm is more than N500 million.”
He further stated that investigations would be expanded to identify and apprehend other individuals linked to the plantation, with the aim of eradicating illegal cannabis farming in the state.
Bisong also called on residents to continue supporting the agency by providing timely intelligence to combat drug trafficking and substance abuse.
