NDLEA Scores Major Victory in Crackdown on Codeine Shipments from India

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has intercepted another large consignment of codeine-based syrup, barely a week after a similar operation at the Port Harcourt Ports complex in Onne, Rivers State. This latest operation resulted in the seizure of 175,000 bottles of the opioid, imported from India, adding up to a substantial 26,250 kilograms. The consignment was part of a larger shipment marked HASU 4787890 and was en route to the C to C bonded terminal in Enugu. The success of this seizure is attributed to prior intelligence that prompted the agency to request a 100 percent examination of the shipment.

The operation took place on Friday, June 7, 2024, during a joint examination involving the NDLEA, Customs Service, and other security agencies. This collaborative effort underscores the importance of inter-agency cooperation in tackling the drug menace. The proactive measures taken by the NDLEA reflect its commitment to preventing the proliferation of dangerous opioids in Nigeria, which poses significant health risks to the population.

Widespread Arrests and Drug Seizures Across Multiple States

In a series of coordinated raids across the country, NDLEA operatives have arrested 20 suspects, including a Nigerien national and two women, in connection with various drug-related offenses. These arrests took place in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Kaduna, Oyo, Kebbi, Gombe, Benue, Bauchi, Yobe, and Kogi states. Notably, on Wednesday, June 5, 2024, NDLEA officers from the Directorate of Operations and General Investigation (DOGI) intercepted five parcels of illicit drugs concealed in ladies’ clothes and synthetic hair at a courier firm in Lagos. These parcels, destined for the United States and United Kingdom, contained 620 ampoules of pentazocine injection, promethazine, and other opioids.

In Kebbi State, a 32-year-old Nigerien named Hassan Mummuni was apprehended on Saturday, June 8, 2024, with 4,000 pills of diazepam and 1.25 kilograms of cannabis hidden in pesticide tanks. On the same day in Gombe State, Ibrahim Abubakar, also known as Alhajiji, was arrested with 6,740 pills of tramadol and 20,000 tablets of diazepam at Herwagana. Additionally, NDLEA operatives in Benue State recovered 1,098 bottles of codeine-based syrup from Onyekachi ThankGod Iwula, 42, who was traveling on a commercial bus. These operations highlight the NDLEA’s relentless efforts to disrupt the drug supply chain and bring perpetrators to justice.

The series of successful raids and arrests across multiple states demonstrate the NDLEA’s strategic and robust approach to combating drug trafficking. By targeting both international shipments and domestic distribution networks, the agency is making significant strides in its mission to safeguard public health and safety.

Major Drug Seizures by NDLEA in Bauchi and Yobe States

In a significant operation on June 5th, NDLEA officers on patrol along the Ningi-Kano road in Bauchi state arrested a 20-year-old woman, Hasana Usman, with 25 blocks of cannabis sativa weighing 28.2 kg. This arrest highlights the agency’s ongoing efforts to curb drug trafficking in the region. The successful interception underscores the importance of routine patrols and vigilant law enforcement in combating the drug menace.

Simultaneously, in Yobe state, another major bust was made on the Kano-Potiskum road. NDLEA officers apprehended a 42-year-old man, Ali Mohammed, who was found with 19,000 pills of tramadol 225mg. The contraband was cleverly concealed in a black sack and the suspect’s travelling bag, indicating the lengths to which traffickers go to evade detection. These coordinated efforts by NDLEA officers in different states signify a robust response to drug trafficking and a commitment to keeping communities safe.

Widespread Arrests and Seizures in Oyo, Kogi, and Kaduna States

In a noteworthy incident on the Lagos-Ibadan expressway, Oyo state, 57-year-old Oladimeji Samson was detained while traveling in a commercial bus. The NDLEA officers discovered 79 blocks of cannabis sativa weighing 44.4 kg and 48 grams of ecstasy hidden in the engine compartment under the driver’s seat. This arrest illustrates the innovative concealment methods employed by traffickers and the vigilance required by law enforcement to detect such smuggling techniques.

Similarly, in Kogi state, Ali Isiaka Mohammed, 36, was arrested at Ganaja village, Lokoja LGA with 17,980 pills of tramadol and other opioids. In Kaduna state, multiple arrests were made, including Blessing Samuel, 35, and Unnanchi Mike, 34, who were caught with 804 bottles of codeine syrup at Narayi. Additionally, Tijjani Umar, 37, and Yahaya Suleman, 35, were apprehended with 33.9 kilograms of cannabis sativa at Lafiya, Kudan LGA. These arrests across multiple states demonstrate the widespread nature of drug trafficking and the relentless efforts of NDLEA in tackling this issue.

War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) Sensitization Activities

Beyond the arrests, the NDLEA continues its proactive War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) campaign, aiming to educate and sensitize the public about the dangers of drug abuse. In the past week, WADA activities included lectures and advocacy in schools, worship centers, workplaces, and communities. Notable events included an enlightenment lecture at Dibal Progressive Academy in Kano, sessions with students of Muslim Comprehensive High School in Saki, Oyo state, and engagement with traditional rulers and community leaders in Ilorin, Kwara state.

Moreover, a WADA advocacy visit was made to the Cross River state governor, Senator Bassey Otu, underscoring the importance of governmental support in this battle. NDLEA Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Retd), commended the officers from various commands for their dedication. He highlighted the balance between drug supply reduction and community sensitization as crucial in the fight against drug abuse. Brig. Gen. Marwa urged continued zeal and consistency in these efforts to maintain and amplify their impact nationwide.