NDLEA uncovers massive drug haul hidden in Edo shrine

Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have uncovered 498 kilograms of skunk cannabis hidden inside a shrine in Edo State, while arresting two suspected drug traffickers in related operations.

The Edo State Commander of the agency, Mitchell Ofoyeju, disclosed this in a statement on Thursday, noting that the illicit consignment was abandoned by a suspected drug baron identified as Asrenre, who is currently on the run.

According to him, NDLEA operatives, acting on credible intelligence, carried out a raid on May 22, 2026, at Igwe Community in Owan East Local Government Area. The operation led to the recovery of 59 bags of skunk cannabis weighing 489 kilograms, along with an additional nine kilograms of cannabis seeds, all concealed within a shrine allegedly used by members of the drug syndicate.

Ofoyeju explained that some youths in the community initially resisted the operation, claiming the shrine was a sacred site inhabited by deities. However, the operatives proceeded with the search, which resulted in the discovery of the hidden drugs.

“The exhibits were abandoned by the prime suspect, a notorious drug baron known as Asrenre, who is currently at large,” he said, adding that efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspect.

In a related development, the NDLEA commander said operatives arrested a 50-year-old suspect, Sunday Oghaimen, who was allegedly found with 945 grams of cannabis and 19 grams of tramadol.

He further disclosed that a 33-year-old woman, Esther Igbafe, was also apprehended with 874 grams of cannabis, 19 grams of tramadol, and three grams of Swinol.

“All suspects are in custody, and the recovered exhibits have been documented and secured,” Ofoyeju stated.

He added that investigations were underway to trace the origin of the drugs and dismantle the criminal network linked to the fleeing suspect, reaffirming the agency’s commitment to combating drug trafficking and abuse in Edo State.