Karu: Abuja community where hard drugs are sold like ‘pure water’

The National Drugs Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), in collaboration with the pro-democracy group Network Against Corruption and Trafficking (NACAT), has unveiled a community in Abuja where hard drugs are being openly sold, resembling everyday food items.

Following an exhaustive investigation by NACAT, the community identified as Abattoir, situated near an animal market in the Karu area of Abuja on the border between the FCT and Nassarwa State, has been exposed as a major center for the distribution of illegal substances such as Crack, Codeine, Molly, Tramadol, Refnol, Rochi, Arizona, and various types of “Loud” (including Canadian and Ghanaian loud).

To combat this alarming situation, NDLEA and NACAT have jointly conducted a public awareness campaign within Abattoir. The campaign featured a road-walk in the community, with NDLEA’s Abuja Command displaying banners and placards bearing messages such as “Friends Don’t Let Friends Do Drugs,” “Spot the Sign, Break the Chain,” “Your Potential is Limitless Without Drugs,” “Love Yourself: Break Free from Substance Abuse,” and “Say No to Drug Trafficking,” among others.

Addressing the media during the awareness campaign, NACAT Operational Manager Stanley Ugagbe referenced Section 11, Part II of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency Act, which unequivocally forbids individuals from engaging in activities related to illegal drugs like cocaine, LSD, heroin, or any illicit substances without lawful authority. Ugagbe sternly cautioned the community’s residents against the consumption of hard drugs and emphasized the importance of engaging in lawful and productive activities.

Ugagbe stated, “Acting on a tip-off, we conducted a covert investigation and uncovered the brazen sale of hard drugs in broad daylight in this area. This is why, as a group committed to combatting drug trafficking, we are here today to enlighten the public about the grave consequences of hard drug use. There are numerous legitimate ways to earn a living in this country,” he warned, urging dealers to pursue lawful and meaningful businesses.

Nduka Augustine, the NDLEA FCT Command’s officer in charge of sensitization, commended NACAT for its campaign against the perils of drug use, drug trafficking, and drug peddling. The collaboration between these two organizations aims to combat the proliferation of hard drugs within the community and safeguard the well-being of its residents.