The Edo State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency has arrested a 19-year-old social media influencer, Praise Nwogu, widely known as Candy, for promoting and selling cookies mixed with cannabis on the internet.
The state commander, Mitchell Ofoyeju, said in a statement on Monday that another suspect, 25-year-old Ebong Oghosa, was also picked up during the operation carried out on November 22. He said the arrests followed weeks of surveillance aimed at breaking an online drug ring behind the production and sale of cannabis-infused pastries.
According to him, both suspects were found with different confectioneries that tested positive for cannabis.
Ofoyeju said, “The Edo State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency 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 in an operation which was carried out on November 22. The two suspects were apprehended with various confectioneries that tested positive for cannabis.”
He explained that Nwogu, who lives in Benin and is from Imo State, was caught with 12 plates and one cup of brownies infused with cannabis indica. He added that she is the person behind the online promotion, with several videos across her social media pages.
He said Oghosa, who is from Akwa Ibom State and also lives in Benin, is believed to be the main producer of the drug-laced cookies. She was found with 76 grams of cannabis sativa, 1.5 grams of Colorado, a large pan and a plate of freshly prepared brownies.
Ofoyeju stressed that the arrests show the agency’s resolve to deal firmly with those involved in producing and distributing illegal drugs. He said the swift action taken by officers highlights the NDLEA’s readiness to confront online traffickers using new methods to avoid detection.
He warned those hiding under social media activities to sell drugs, saying they should expect arrest. He added that investigation is ongoing and the suspects will face charges in court soon.
The commander urged residents to report suspicious activities, noting that public cooperation helps build safer communities.
