NDLEA Arrests Wanted Drug Baron Linked to Multiple Cocaine Shipments

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has achieved a significant breakthrough in its fight against drug trafficking with the apprehension of Alhaji Suleiman Ganiu Aremu, also known as Barryshine. Aremu, the Managing Director/CEO of Barryshine Suleiman Nigeria Ltd, had been on the NDLEA’s watchlist for his alleged involvement in four attempts to smuggle cocaine to Saudi Arabia and Qatar through the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos between 2022 and 2024.

The saga began in November 2022 when Alhaja Ajisegiri Kehinde Sidika was arrested at MMIA with 400 grams of cocaine hidden in female footwear destined for Saudi Arabia. Investigations revealed that Abdullahi Olarenwaju Ramon, an associate of Suleiman, had facilitated the operation. Subsequent arrests, including that of Lawal Lateef Oyenuga in similar circumstances, further implicated Suleiman, linking him to a network that used MMIA as a hub for drug trafficking operations.

Network of Traffickers Unveiled

During the investigation into these incidents, the NDLEA uncovered a complex web of traffickers working under Suleiman’s direction. Notably, Wasiu Sanni Gbolahan, also known as Teacher, played a pivotal role in recruiting couriers like Lawal Oyenuga. The investigation identified Oluwafemi Akande Abidoye, alias Igbono, as a key figure orchestrating logistics for the trafficking operations.

In June 2024, two more couriers, Aikhomoun Daniel and Ayigoro Waheed Omobolaji, were intercepted at MMIA attempting to smuggle significant amounts of cocaine to Qatar. Both men implicated Igbono and confirmed their involvement in previous smuggling attempts linked to Suleiman.

Seizure of Assets and Continued Pursuit

Following these arrests, the NDLEA moved swiftly to freeze bank accounts associated with the trafficking network and intensified efforts to apprehend Suleiman. On August 26, 2024, Suleiman was apprehended for further questioning, where he claimed innocence, stating his primary business interests in property development and hotel management in Lagos and Paris. Despite his assertions, investigations have led to the identification of properties linked to Suleiman, including houses in Ebute-Meta and a hotel in Yaba.

Legal Proceedings and Wanted Associates

Meanwhile, Justice Dipeolu Deinde Isaac of the Federal High Court in Lagos has granted the NDLEA’s request to extend Suleiman’s detention for 30 days. The court also issued warrants declaring Suleiman’s associates, Oluwafemi Akande Abidoye and Olarenwaju Ramon Abdullahi, wanted for their alleged roles in drug trafficking activities alongside Suleiman.

In response to the developments, Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa, Chairman of the NDLEA, emphasized the agency’s commitment to dismantling drug trafficking networks across Nigeria. He reiterated that no drug barons would find refuge, emphasizing the agency’s resolve to pursue justice and ensure drug traffickers face the full consequences of their actions.

This latest arrest marks a significant victory for the NDLEA in its ongoing battle against drug trafficking and underscores the agency’s dedication to safeguarding Nigeria from the scourge of narcotics.

NDLEA Commends Officers for Successful Operation

In a statement regarding the arrest, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the NDLEA, Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (Retd), praised the dedication of the MMIA Strategic Command. He lauded the officers’ efforts in conducting the thorough investigation that spanned over two years, which not only led to the arrest of Barryshine but also resulted in the conviction of three traffickers associated with his cartel.

Brigadier General Marwa emphasized that the arrest is a testament to the agency’s resolve to bring drug lords to justice, no matter how long it takes. He affirmed that the NDLEA will continue to pursue all individuals involved in narcotics trafficking, ensuring that the “long arm of the law” eventually catches up with them. This operation is a significant victory for Nigeria’s anti-drug efforts and a strong message to those engaged in criminal activities.