NDLEA’s Ongoing Fight Against Drug Trafficking in Nigeria

A significant drug bust at Kano Airport resulted in the arrest of an Angolan businessman who ingested 120 cocaine pellets for trafficking. Additional arrests and drug seizures occurred across Nigeria, highlighting ongoing efforts by the NDLEA to combat drug-related crimes and promote drug abuse awareness through community engagement.

Operatives from Nigeria’s National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) arrested 42-year-old Angolan businessman Mbala Abuba at Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport for trying to smuggle cocaine. He ingested the drug in large amounts to transport it to Istanbul, Turkey. After undergoing observation, authorities confirmed he expelled 120 cocaine pellets weighing 1.829 kg over seven excretions. Abuba mentioned he previously worked in township delivery services before moving to drug trafficking.

In another case, auto parts dealer Ebuka Igwe was apprehended attempting to send 1.10 kg of cocaine hidden in vehicle propellers from the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos to Angola, based on reliable intelligence. Additionally, Ezechi Cyprian was arrested while trying to transport 5.40 kg of cocaine to Owerri, Imo state, on February 23.

At Tin Can Island port, NDLEA found 128 parcels of Canadian Loud cannabis hidden in mattresses during a targeted container inspection, arresting the consignee, 44-year-old Bamidele Joseph. NDLEA operatives also destroyed over 50,000 kg of cannabis on a 20-hectare farm in Delta state, arresting five suspects. Another raid in the same state led to the seizure of 101 bags of skunk totaling 1,111 kg.

In Edo state, authorities destroyed over 100 bags of skunk, weighing 1,409.5 kg from warehouses, while a suspect was arrested. Other arrests included individuals caught with large quantities of tramadol and skunk across various states, including Osun and Borno. NDLEA is actively engaged in its War Against Drug Abuse, conducting sensitization programs in schools and communities nationwide to raise awareness about drug issues.

The NDLEA has successfully executed multiple operations against drug trafficking across Nigeria, resulting in significant seizures and arrests. Strategies include both surveillance and intervention during transport processes. Furthermore, educational outreach is being prioritized to combat drug abuse in the community, indicating a comprehensive approach to drug enforcement and awareness. The agency aims to strengthen its efforts and enhance collaboration among security agencies to tackle narcotics trafficking effectively.

Original Source: businessday.ng