NDLEA discovers potent cannabis variant ‘California loud’ in Lagos

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has uncovered a new strain of cannabis, known as “California Loud,” in Lagos State, PUNCH Metro has learned.

The discovery comes shortly after the agency busted a secret laboratory producing Colorado, a highly potent synthetic variant of cannabis, inside a residential building at Ajao Estate, Isolo, Lagos. The operation, which followed months of surveillance, led to the arrest of a 30-year-old suspect, Stephen Imoh.

Speaking on This Morning, a programme on TVC News on Monday, NDLEA spokesperson Femi Babafemi confirmed the emergence of California Loud, describing it as a growing challenge in the fight against illicit drugs.

“Loud is another strain of cannabis. It’s more potent than what we have locally, which makes it more attractive to young people,” Babafemi explained.
“Recently in Lagos, we discovered a new variant called ‘California Loud.’ It’s a big challenge, and everyone needs to get involved — from families to communities and society at large.”

Expanding on the earlier discovery of the Colorado lab, Babafemi highlighted the dangers of the synthetic drug and its production process.

“The THC comes from cannabis itself, but other chemicals are added to make it synthetic. This combination makes it extremely dangerous,” he said.

He revealed that the arrested suspect was already suffering from chemical exposure, saying,

“If you look at his skin, it’s peeling off. He’s developed pigmentation due to contact with toxic substances used in production.”

Despite consistent operations and arrests, Nigeria continues to battle the spread of illicit drug production and trafficking.

NDLEA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (retd.), reiterated the agency’s determination to dismantle drug cartels nationwide and strip offenders of their illegal profits.

In a statement on Sunday, Marwa vowed that the NDLEA would ensure all assets traced to drug traffickers are forfeited to the Federal Government, stressing that the agency remains resolute in cutting off financial incentives that fuel the drug trade.