Troops of the 13 Brigade, in collaboration with operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), have successfully destroyed a large illegal cannabis farm in Cross River State, marking a significant step in the ongoing fight against drug cultivation in the region. The operation, carried out on April 25 during a routine patrol under Operation UDO KA, targeted a three-hectare plantation located in the Uwét community of Akamkpa Local Government Area. Security sources confirmed that the joint task force discovered the illicit farm around 10:30 a.m. and immediately took action to dismantle it. No arrests were made during the operation, but authorities emphasized the importance of disrupting drug production networks before they can expand.
The destruction of the cannabis farm reflects a coordinated effort between military and law enforcement agencies to curb drug-related crimes in the Niger Delta and surrounding areas. Operation UDO KA, which stands for “Udoma Do Ka,” is part of a broader strategy to eliminate illegal drug farms and disrupt trafficking routes. According to security analyst Zagazola Makama, who cited reliable sources, the patrol team acted swiftly upon spotting the plantation. The operatives moved in without resistance and systematically destroyed the entire crop, preventing it from being harvested or distributed. This kind of proactive surveillance is seen as critical in reducing the supply of narcotics in local markets.
The three-hectare farm was a major operation, indicating the scale of illicit cultivation in the region. Cannabis cultivation has become a growing concern in Cross River and neighboring states, with illegal farms often hidden in remote rural areas. The destruction of this site sends a strong message to would-be cultivators and distributors that security agencies are actively monitoring and targeting such activities. While no suspects were apprehended during this particular operation, authorities remain vigilant and continue to conduct regular patrols across vulnerable zones.
The NDLEA and military have been increasing their cooperation in recent months, particularly in areas where drug farming is rampant. These joint operations are designed to enhance intelligence sharing and improve response times. The destruction of the Uwét plantation is one of several similar actions taken across Nigeria in the past year, as part of a nationwide crackdown on drug production. Authorities stress that such efforts are essential to reducing the availability of illegal substances and curbing the associated social and health problems.
This operation underscores the government’s commitment to tackling drug abuse and trafficking at its source. As security agencies continue to expand their reach, the destruction of this cannabis farm serves as a warning to others involved in illegal cultivation. The success of Operation UDO KA in Cross River State may encourage similar actions in other states, reinforcing national efforts to create a safer, drug-free environment for Nigerians.
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