NDLEA Dismantles Two Major Drug Cartels: Significant Cocaine and Fentanyl Seizures

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has successfully dismantled two significant drug trafficking cartels, leading to the seizure of multi-billion-naira worth of cocaine and fentanyl. In two separate intelligence-led operations, the agency arrested six individuals, including a couple believed to be the masterminds behind one of the cartels. This notable achievement underscores the agency’s commitment to eradicating drug trafficking within and beyond Nigeria’s borders.

In the first operation, Bolanle Lookman Dauda and his wife, Olayinka Toheebat Dauda, were apprehended on May 25, 2024. The arrest took place at Ibiye along the Lagos-Badagry expressway while the couple attempted to transport a significant consignment of cocaine to Ghana. NDLEA operatives, supported by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), intercepted the couple at the border with 42 blocks of cocaine weighing 47.5 kilograms.

Additional Seizures and Arrests Amplify NDLEA’s Success

Following the arrest of Bolanle and Olayinka Dauda, NDLEA operatives conducted a swift follow-up operation at the couple’s residence in Ogun State. The search at Plot 24/25 OPIC Extension, Petedo Road, Agbara, led to the discovery of an additional eight blocks of cocaine weighing 10 kilograms. In total, the NDLEA seized 57.5 kilograms of cocaine from the Dauda cartel, significantly disrupting their operations.

The agency’s efforts did not stop with the Dauda cartel. In a concurrent operation, NDLEA operatives intercepted a shipment of “Loud,” a potent strain of cannabis, concealed within the compartments of imported vehicles. This operation, part of a broader strategy to target various forms of drug trafficking, highlights the NDLEA’s comprehensive approach to tackling drug-related crimes. The successful interception of these drugs not only prevents their distribution within Nigeria but also curtails their potential impact on other countries.

Major Drug Busts in Lagos: Fentanyl and Methamphetamine Seized

In a significant operation led by the special operation unit of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), a substantial quantity of lethal synthetic opioid, fentanyl, was confiscated at the bustling Idumota market in Lagos Island. The operation resulted in the seizure of over 1,100 ampoules of fentanyl, weighing a total of 6.48kg, from 34-year-old Ikeh Stanley Ifeanyi, a known member of a drug trafficking syndicate. Additionally, 790 ampoules weighing 5.273kg were seized from 48-year-old Chieze Ogechukwu Benjamin, another member of the same syndicate.

Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid approximately 100 times more potent than heroin, has been a major cause of overdose deaths, particularly in the United States, where it accounts for over 70% of overdose fatalities. The apprehension of these individuals at the Idumota market underscores the pervasive nature of the opioid crisis and highlights the NDLEA’s ongoing efforts to disrupt the supply chains of this dangerous drug. The operation also led to the arrest of two other individuals, Olayiwola Aremu Kazeem, 37, and Ogunfowora Taofik Ajibola, 35, who were found in possession of 432 grams of methamphetamine during a separate raid on Lagos Island.

NDLEA’s Tincan Port Interception: Synthetic Cannabis Seized

In a concurrent operation at the Tincan port in Lagos, NDLEA operatives intercepted 15 parcels of “Loud,” a potent synthetic strain of cannabis weighing 7.5kg. The drugs were ingeniously concealed within the doors and body crevices of a Toyota Highlander SUV, which was part of a container shipment marked MSMU 7294325. The container, declared to contain three used vehicles including the Toyota Highlander, had originated from Toronto and was shipped to Nigeria via Montreal, Canada.

A swift follow-up operation led to the arrest of two suspects, Sunday Sodade and Oriyomi Adesina, who were designated to receive the vehicle and its illicit cargo. The operation also uncovered an attempted bribe of six million naira, offered by the sender of the container in Canada through his local agent, which has been documented as evidence for prosecution. This interception highlights the sophisticated methods employed by drug traffickers and the critical role of international cooperation in combating drug smuggling.

NDLEA’s Continued Commitment and Strategic Collaboration

Reacting to the series of arrests and seizures, NDLEA Chairman/Chief Executive Officer Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa (Retd) praised the dedication and effectiveness of the special operation unit. He commended the officers for their resilience in targeting and dismantling drug cartels and syndicates. Marwa also lauded the successful collaboration between NDLEA and its local and international partners, which has been instrumental in achieving these significant busts.

Marwa urged all commands and formations of the agency to maintain their offensive stance against drug trafficking. The recent successes serve as a testament to the NDLEA’s unwavering commitment to eradicating drug-related crimes and ensuring public safety. As the agency continues to enhance its operational capabilities and foster international collaborations, the fight against the drug underworld remains a top priority for Nigeria