NDLEA Arrests 19-Year-Old Influencer Candy For Selling Cannabis-Laced Cookies In Edo

The Edo State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) on Monday said it arrested a 19-year-old social media influencer, Praise Nwogu, also known as Candy, for promoting and selling cookies laced with cannabis online.

The state commander, Mitchell Ofoyeju, who disclosed this in a statement, said another suspect, 25-year-old Ebong Oghosa, was also arrested during an operation carried out on November 22.

He explained that the arrests followed weeks of persistent surveillance and intelligence gathering aimed at dismantling the online drug ring involved in lacing cookies with cannabis.

Ofoyeju said both suspects were apprehended with various confectioneries that tested positive for cannabis. He noted that Nwogu, who resides in Benin but hails from Imo State, was found in possession of 12 plates and one cup of brownies infused with cannabis indica. He described Nwogu as the mastermind behind the online promotion, with numerous videos on different social media channels.

He added that Oghosa, who hails from Akwa Ibom State and resides in Benin, is believed to be the production expert.

During the arrest, Oghosa was found with 76 grams of cannabis sativa and 1.5 grams of Colorado, a potent form of cannabis. In addition to the illicit drugs, authorities seized one large pan and a plate of brownies.

Ofoyeju said, “The Edo State Command of the NDLEA has arrested a 19-year-old social media influencer, Praise Nwogu, known as Candy, for promoting and selling cookies laced with cannabis online. Another suspect, Ebong Oghosa, 25 years old, was also arrested during an operation on November 22. Both suspects were apprehended with confectioneries that tested positive for cannabis.”

He emphasized that the operation underscores the NDLEA’s commitment to combating drug-related offences and ensuring that the law is upheld firmly against individuals involved in the production and distribution of illegal substances.

Ofoyeju further noted that the swift actions taken by the officers highlight the agency’s readiness to respond to the evolving tactics of online drug traffickers. He warned that individuals hiding behind online platforms to traffic drugs should prepare for the agency’s intervention.

He added that the investigation into the case is ongoing and that the suspects would soon face charges in court.

The NDLEA commander urged the public to report any suspicious activities or drug-related issues in their communities, stressing that society becomes safer when citizens collaborate with law enforcement agencies.

He recalled that the Edo State NDLEA command has destroyed nine cannabis farms in the state and said the Edo State Government and the NDLEA are strategizing to address the problem of cannabis cultivation.

Ofoyeju also stated that drug control measures aimed at promoting sustainable agricultural practices would be encouraged.

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