The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has begun the formal induction of AK-47 rifles and advanced pistols into its operations as part of efforts to strengthen the agency’s fight against violent drug cartels across Nigeria.
NDLEA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, retired Brigadier General Buba Marwa, disclosed this on Monday during the inauguration of a specialised Train-the-Trainer Course on Weapon Handling at the NDLEA Academy in Jos, Plateau State.
According to Marwa, the introduction of the new weapons is aimed at improving the operational capacity of NDLEA personnel, especially as drug trafficking syndicates become increasingly armed and violent.
He said the agency is committed to equipping its officers with the necessary skills and tools to confront criminal networks while carrying out anti-drug operations across the country.
The specialised training covers the handling and safe use of AK-47 Type 56-1 rifles and HS-9/CF98A pistols, with selected officers expected to train other operatives nationwide.
Marwa stressed that the move is part of the agency’s ongoing reforms to enhance professionalism, improve operational effectiveness and ensure the safety of officers engaged in high-risk operations.
The NDLEA has in recent years intensified its crackdown on drug trafficking and abuse, leading to the arrest of suspected traffickers, seizure of illicit drugs and the dismantling of several drug networks across Nigeria.
