The Edo State Security Network (ESSN) has apprehended two individuals in possession of a substantial quantity of illicit drugs during operations at separate locations in Benin City, Edo State. This action is part of ongoing efforts to rid the state of narcotics.
Suspects and Seized Drugs
The suspects, identified as Stella Thompson and Efosa Uyi, were arrested at different spots in Benin City. They were found with a large amount of cannabis intended for sale to users, contributing to drug addiction. The drugs recovered by ESSN officials include Indian hemp, crystal methamphetamine (commonly known as Ice), Colorado (Colos), Canadian Loud, and Scottish Loud, all seized in significant quantities.
Official Statement
Commissioner for Public Security and Safety, Festus Ebea, addressed journalists regarding the successful operations. He issued a stern warning to drug addicts and dealers, stating that Edo State is not a safe haven for their activities. Ebea confirmed that the two suspects were arrested from different parts of Benin City and will be handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for prosecution. He emphasized that the legal process will be strictly followed to ensure justice.
“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,” Ebea said. He added, “We are not relenting in combing the state and getting drug addicts, and those trading in illicit drugs off the state. These two suspects were arrested on Friday, 29th May 2026, with a large quantity of illicit drugs. 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.”
Call to Youth
Ebea also appealed to young people to stay away from drugs, highlighting their detrimental effects. “We equally call on the youths to stay off drugs as it has no positive impact on their lives but rather end up being useless to society. 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 stated.
He urged journalists to follow up on the story to ensure justice is served, which would act as a deterrent to other youths. “We will do our best and call on the media to follow up and ensure justice is served. Our youths should stay off drugs as it has no benefits to any users, you can't think of. It will make you end up useless and degraded in society. Encourage the youths to stay off drugs, and be safe. No criminal arrests that are not connected to drugs. They use drugs to carry out their nefarious activities in the state,” Ebea concluded.
