NDLEA Intercepts N7.3bn Codeine Consignments at Port Harcourt Ports

In a significant operation against drug trafficking, operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have intercepted a staggering haul of codeine syrup valued at over N7.3 billion at the Port Harcourt Ports complex in Rivers state. This seizure, comprising 6,125 cartons containing 1,050,000 bottles of codeine syrup, marks the third such interception in recent weeks. The operation, conducted on Saturday 29th June 2024, was executed following meticulous tracking and intelligence gathering by a specialized unit of the NDLEA in collaboration with the Port Harcourt Ports Command and other security agencies.

The consignments were subjected to a thorough joint examination, revealing their illicit contents. This interception underscores the NDLEA’s commitment to combating drug trafficking across Nigeria’s ports, addressing a significant threat to public health and security. The recovered codeine syrup, with a street value exceeding N7.3 billion, represents a substantial dent in the illicit drug market, preventing these harmful substances from reaching communities nationwide.

Arrests and Drug Seizures Across Nigeria

In concurrent operations, the NDLEA has made notable arrests and seizures across various states. At the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos, two passengers bound for Doha were apprehended after testing positive for ingesting illicit substances. Aikhomoun Daniel, alias Oladapo Olanrewaju, and Ayigoro Waheed Omobolaji were taken into custody after excreting significant quantities of cocaine wraps, highlighting the agency’s vigilance in air transit hubs.

Moreover, in Abuja, the NDLEA intercepted and arrested 60 individuals during a drug party, underscoring ongoing efforts to dismantle drug trafficking networks within urban centers. Additionally, in Edo state, the agency destroyed 18,632 kilograms of cannabis in a forest area, mitigating the spread of illicit drug cultivation and distribution.

Recoveries and Challenges in Drug Enforcement

In a separate incident along the Lekki-Ikoyi road in Lagos, NDLEA operatives seized a black Toyota Tacoma truck carrying 40.32 kilograms of imported Loud, a potent strain of cannabis. The driver attempted to evade capture but was intercepted, highlighting the continued challenges faced by law enforcement in intercepting drug shipments across Nigeria’s urban and rural landscapes.

These operations reflect the NDLEA’s multifaceted approach to tackling drug trafficking, encompassing interception at ports, surveillance at airports, and crackdowns on illicit drug activities within communities. The agency’s efforts not only prevent substantial quantities of narcotics from entering circulation but also contribute significantly to safeguarding public health and maintaining national security.

By effectively disrupting drug supply chains and apprehending traffickers, the NDLEA remains steadfast in its mission to combat the scourge of drug abuse and trafficking, safeguarding communities and promoting a drug-free Nigeria.

NDLEA Raids Abuja Drug Party, Arrests 60 Suspects

In a significant operation, NDLEA operatives on Friday night disrupted a notorious drug party in Abuja, dubbed “Go Hard or Go Home. Pick Your Poison,” leading to the arrest of 60 suspects. The operation took place at an apartment in Sun City estate in the Federal Capital Territory, following credible intelligence about the event organized by one Stanley Ikechukwu, who was apprehended at the venue. The suspects, comprising 25 males and 35 females, were taken into custody in a meticulously planned raid aimed at curbing the rising drug menace in the region.

At the scene, at least six suspects, namely Victoria Adoga, Hamza Yari, Joanne Essein Joy, Socchima Valentine, Jago Imole, and Charles Indobuibisi, were found with varying quantities of ecstasy and cannabis. The Chairman and Chief Executive of NDLEA, Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), has instructed that 20 of the suspects who tested negative for drugs be released unconditionally. Meanwhile, the 33 individuals who tested positive will be released on bail and required to report to the FCT Command of the Agency on Monday to commence treatment and counseling.

Major Cannabis Farm Destroyed in Edo State

In another significant operation, NDLEA operatives raided and destroyed a large cannabis farm in the deep forest of Ugun, Igueben LGA, Edo state, on Saturday, June 29. The operation resulted in the arrest of four suspects: Endurance Okon, 24; Joseph Michael, 23; Ovoco Bright, 43; and Goday Abanum, 23. The operatives successfully eradicated 18,632.22 kilograms of cannabis cultivated on 7.452888 hectares of farmland, demonstrating the Agency’s unwavering commitment to combating drug cultivation and trafficking.

This operation highlights NDLEA’s continuous efforts to dismantle drug networks and curtail the supply of illicit substances. The destruction of such a significant quantity of cannabis not only disrupts the supply chain but also sends a strong message to those involved in the illegal drug trade that their activities will not go unchecked. The NDLEA’s dedication to eradicating drug abuse and trafficking is further evidenced by these decisive actions against major drug cultivation operations.

NDLEA Intensifies War Against Drug Abuse Nationwide

In parallel with these operations, the NDLEA has continued its War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) sensitization activities across the country. Over the past week, the Agency conducted enlightenment lectures and advocacy visits to various institutions and communities. These included a WADA lecture for students and staff of First Technical University, Ibadan, Oyo state; Government Day Secondary School, Yola, Adamawa; and Ezeike High School, Nibo, Anambra. Additionally, the Agency engaged with members of Mount Zion Anglican Church, Igoba, Akure, Ondo state, and paid an advocacy visit to the palace of the Oba of Yoruba in Kano, Dr. Murtala Alimi Otitese.

Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd) commended the officers and men of the MMIA, Port Harcourt Ports, Lagos, and Edo Commands for their successful arrests and seizures. He reiterated that the ingenuity of drug traffickers would always be countered by the dedicated workforce of the Agency, in collaboration with other stakeholders and partners. Marwa urged NDLEA officers to maintain their balanced approach to drug control efforts, emphasizing that the Agency remains steadfast in its mission to eradicate drug abuse and trafficking in Nigeria.