NDLEA Foils Attempt to Smuggle Illicit Drugs through MMIA, Lagos

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has intercepted a significant drug trafficking attempt at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos. A 35-year-old woman, Chidinma Chinenye Agbazue, was apprehended while trying to export 20 parcels of cannabis sativa, weighing 10.70 kilograms, concealed within African salad and dried vegetables to Doha, Qatar. This operation, carried out in collaboration with the Department of State Security, highlights the agency’s commitment to combatting drug trafficking.

Chidinma, who had returned to Nigeria from Qatar for the Christmas holidays, was found in possession of the illicit substances during passenger screening at terminal 11 of MMIA. Preliminary investigations revealed that she had been staying at a hotel in Ikotun, Lagos, where the contraband was handed over to her for trafficking to Qatar. This arrest underscores the NDLEA’s vigilance in monitoring drug trafficking activities at Nigeria’s international airports.

NDLEA Nationwide Crackdown on Drug Trafficking Yields Multiple Arrests

In a coordinated effort across various states, the NDLEA has made significant strides in curbing drug trafficking activities. In Lagos, two suspects, Monday Okeke and Chigozie Emeka, were apprehended with a sizable quantity of opioids, including tramadol, codeine syrup, and Molly. Despite an attempted bribe of N5 million, the NDLEA officers remained steadfast in their duty, further demonstrating the agency’s integrity and dedication to combating drug-related crimes.

Similarly, in Bayelsa state, three suspects were intercepted attempting to smuggle opioids into the Southern Ijaw area. The drugs, concealed in jumbo sacks, were destined for the creeks before NDLEA operatives thwarted the operation at Swali jetty in Yenagoa. These arrests underscore the agency’s proactive approach in tackling drug trafficking, particularly in regions prone to such activities.

Continued Success in Anti-Drug Operations Across States

The NDLEA’s relentless efforts in combating drug trafficking have yielded notable successes across multiple states. From the interception of cannabis in Ondo state to the seizure of tramadol pills in Taraba and the arrest of suspects in Abia and Kano, the agency’s operations have disrupted illicit drug networks nationwide. Furthermore, the destruction of cannabis farms in Edo state and the recovery of a significant quantity of cannabis in Ondo state demonstrate the agency’s commitment to eradicating drug cultivation and trafficking at its roots. These recent operations underscore the NDLEA’s unwavering determination to safeguard communities from the harmful effects of drug abuse and trafficking.

Nationwide WADA Advocacy Campaigns Target Drug Abuse

In a concerted effort to combat drug abuse, Commands nationwide have ramped up their War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) advocacy lectures in various communities and institutions. These initiatives aim to educate and sensitize different segments of the population about the dangers of drug abuse and the importance of prevention.

Educational Institutions on the Frontline

One of the focal points of the WADA advocacy lectures was educational institutions. Lectures were held for students and teachers at notable institutions such as the Federal University of Technology in Ihiagwa, Owerri, Imo State; Community Secondary School in Eyo-Abasi, Oron, Akwa Ibom State; and Oke Iragbiji Grammar School in Osun State. These lectures targeted young minds, aiming to instill awareness and empower them to make informed decisions regarding substance abuse.

Community Engagement and Religious Centers

In addition to educational institutions, WADA advocacy lectures extended to communities and religious centers. Commercial motorcycle riders in Oye Ekiti, Ekiti State, and Ankpa, Kogi State, were among the groups reached with sensitization programs. Furthermore, Muslim faithful at Aliade Central Mosque in Aliade, Benue State, received informative sessions on the detrimental effects of drug abuse. These efforts underscore the importance of engaging communities and religious institutions in the fight against drug abuse.

Commendation for Nationwide Efforts

Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Retd), Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), commended the officers and men of various Commands across the country for their unwavering commitment to the WADA advocacy campaign. The MMIA, Lagos, Edo, Ogun, Kano, Abia, Bayelsa, Ondo, and Taraba Commands were specifically highlighted for their balanced efforts in the past week. Marwa praised the intensified advocacy lectures as a crucial step towards creating a drug-free society and emphasized the need for continued collaboration and vigilance in the fight against drug abuse.