Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Beloved John
Published on 2024-04-15 09:32:03
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Nigeria has raised an alarm about a dangerous drug mixture known as ‘combine’ that was discovered during a routine raid in Cross River State. This illicit concoction, classified as a New Psychoactive Substance (NPS), consists of multiple strains of Cannabis Colorado, Loud, and Opioids soaked in raw gin. It is being produced by a 40-year-old widow and mother of two named Theodora Ita in Bassey Edom, Calabar.
In a statement released on Sunday, NDLEA’s spokesperson, Femi Babafemi, warned the public against consuming ‘combine’, emphasizing the severe harm it could cause to the body. The agency described ‘combine’ as a dangerous combination of lethal substances that pose a significant threat to health and well-being.
The NDLEA reported that 18 liters of ‘combine’ were seized from Theodora’s possession during the operation, stored in old paint drums ready for distribution. The suspect admitted to initiating the production of this hazardous drug in October 2023.
The manufacture of new and unconventional drugs, designed to replicate the effects of traditional substances like cannabis, cocaine, and ecstasy, has become increasingly popular in Nigeria. These drugs, referred to as NPS, are locally sourced and available at low costs, leading to changes in mood, feelings, and behavior by affecting the brain. Unlike controlled substances under international conventions, NPS are emerging and difficult to detect, posing a challenge for law enforcement and regulatory authorities.
The surge in local drug production is expected to drive up substance abuse rates in Nigeria, with projections indicating a significant increase in the number of drug users by 2030. A joint study by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) and the Centre for Research and Information on Substance Abuse (CRISA) revealed that approximately 14.3 million Nigerians between the ages of 15 and 64 engage in drug use. The South-west region has the highest number of users, followed by the North-west and the South-south, where the ‘combine’ mixture was discovered.
As the prevalence of drug abuse continues to rise, there is a pressing need for heightened awareness, prevention measures, and intervention strategies to address the growing public health concern. The NDLEA’s efforts in combating illicit drug production and trafficking play a crucial role in safeguarding communities and promoting a drug-free society. It is imperative for individuals and stakeholders to collaborate in tackling the scourge of substance abuse and protecting the well-being of the population.
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