NDLEA raises alarm over discovery of cannabis strain ‘California Loud’ in Lagos

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, has uncovered a new and highly potent strain of cannabis, identified as “California Loud,” in Lagos State.

This latest discovery comes shortly after the agency dismantled a secret laboratory in Ajao Estate, Isolo, where a synthetic variant of cannabis known as “Colorado” was being produced inside a residential building.

The operation led to the arrest of a 30-year-old suspect, Stephen Imoh, following months of discreet intelligence gathering.

NDLEA spokesperson, Femi Babafemi disclosed the emergence of the new cannabis strain during an appearance on This Morning, a programme aired on TVC News on Monday.

“Loud is another strain of cannabis, and it’s a very potent one, much stronger than what we have locally. That’s part of its attraction; the taste and effect are more intense, which is why many young people go for it,” Babafemi explained.

“Recently in Lagos, we also discovered a new variant called California Loud. It’s a major challenge for us, and that’s why everyone, from families to communities, needs to get involved in curbing the spread,” he added.

Speaking further on the earlier discovery of the Colorado production lab, Babafemi described the synthetic drug as extremely dangerous due to its complex chemical composition.

“The THC component is extracted from cannabis and mixed with other harmful chemicals, which is what makes it synthetic, and very dangerous,” he said.

He also revealed that the arrested suspect had already begun to suffer severe skin damage caused by exposure to the chemicals used in production.

“If you observe his body, his skin is peeling and discoloured due to the chemical reactions from the substances he handled,” Babafemi noted.

Despite numerous arrests and consistent clampdowns on drug networks nationwide, Nigeria continues to face a growing challenge of illicit drug use and trafficking.

NDLEA Chairman and Chief Executive, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (rtd.), has reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to intensifying its operations against drug cartels.

Marwa stressed that the NDLEA will not relent in tracking, dismantling, and prosecuting individuals or groups involved in drug production and distribution, while ensuring that offenders are stripped of their illegal proceeds.