A combined security task force has arrested no fewer than 30 suspected drug peddlers and dealers during a coordinated raid on several drug flashpoints in the Akoko North-East Local Government Area of Ondo state.

The joint operation, codenamed ?Operation Sweep?, was carried out in the early hours of Wednesday by operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Nigeria Police Force (NPF), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Amotekun Corps, Forest Guards, and the Oodua Peoples? Congress (OPC).

The operation, which was supervised by the Chairman of Akoko North-East LGA, Hon. Mohammed Mutiu Olawale, led to the seizure of large quantities of narcotic substances, including cannabis, tramadol, and other illicit drugs.

Speaking after the raid, Hon. Olawale said the crackdown followed credible intelligence reports on the rising activities of drug dealers across the council area.

He noted that the exercise was part of the council?s resolve to reclaim communities from the grip of drug-related crimes.

?At least 25 drug peddlers were arrested while 7 drug lords were also nabbed by the security agencies. A woman who had been in the illicit business of selling drugs was among those apprehended,? Olawale said.

He lamented the growing menace of drug abuse among youths, describing it as a ?raging fire consuming the strength, future, and promise of our young people.?

?Hard drugs have fueled crime, suppressed productivity, and threatened the stability of our communities. We cannot fold our arms while our sons and daughters are consumed by addiction.?

According to him, several criminal hideouts were dismantled during the operation, while the task force also destroyed makeshift structures where illicit activities thrived.

Olawale commended the joint security agencies for their synergy and professionalism and thanked residents for their cooperation.

He described the operation as a timely and courageous effort to restore peace and safeguard the future of the youth.

The chairman also appreciated Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa for his continuous support for local security initiatives.

?This effort is more than just an operation ? it is a reaffirmation of our commitment to safeguard lives, restore public sanity, and secure the future of our youth.

?Let this serve as a stern warning to all those still involved in the sale or use of hard drugs: your days of impunity are numbered,? he declared.

Hon. Olawale called on parents, religious leaders, youth groups, and community stakeholders to partner with security agencies in the fight against drug abuse.

?In Akoko North-East, we will continue to say no to drugs, no to crime, and yes to peace, progress, and purposeful living,? he affirmed. (THE NATION)

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