NDLEA DECRIES POOR WORKING FACILITIES IN GOMBE

Despite lack of adequate working facilities in its command, the
Gombe State command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency
(NDLEA), has recorded over 90 percent success in the rehabilitation
of drug dependent persons in the state over the last two years.

The state commander of the agency, Ishaku Iliya who made this known
during a press briefing marking the 2008 United Nations
International day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking,
therefore, renewed the appeal to the state government to establish
a rehabilitation centre in the state.

He said under his watch from April 2006, the command had seized
477.7 kg of Indian hemp as well as arrested 176 persons for
unlawfully possession and use of banned drugs and substances.

Among the number, 40 have been successfully tried and convicted to
various jail terms, while some were jailed without the option of
fine due to the enormity of their offence, adding that five are
presently facing trial.

He said 80 others with the exception of five cases of relapse, have
been successfully rehabilitated and are now living their normal life.

While acknowledging fears that the rehabilitated persons may be
lured to drugs out of frustration due to joblessness and idleness,
stressed the need for government to have an inbuilt skills
acquisition centre and indoor sporting facilities in the
rehabilitation centre it may wish to establish.