NDLEA had secure the conviction of four drug kingpins linked to the record-breaking seizure of 2,139.55 kilograms of cocaine at an Ikorodu estate in Lagos. They had been sentenced to a total of 28 years in prison. The Federal High Court in Lagos, presided over by Justice Yellim Bogoro, delivered the verdict after over two years of rigorous prosecution by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).
The convicts—Soji Jubril Oke (71), Wasiu Akinade (55), Emmanuel Arinze Chukwu (67), and Kelvin Christopher Smith (44), a Jamaican—faced multiple charges including conspiracy, operating a drug trafficking organization, and possession of illicit drugs. Justice Bogoro sentenced them to varying jail terms ranging from three to sixteen years. In addition, they were required to pay fines or serve their full jail terms. A fifth suspect, Oguntolure Sunday, is still undergoing trial.
Landmark Operation Nets 2.1 Tons of Cocaine
The monumental drug bust occurred on September 18, 2022, when NDLEA operatives raided a house at 6 Olokunola Crescent, Solebo Estate, Ikorodu, Lagos. The operation, described as intelligence-driven and meticulously planned, led to the seizure of over 2.1 tons of cocaine—the largest single haul in Nigeria’s history.
The suspects were apprehended in various locations, including hotels and hideouts, between September 18 and 19, 2022. This landmark operation demonstrated the agency’s commitment to dismantling drug trafficking networks. NDLEA Chairman, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), hailed the seizure as a significant milestone in Nigeria’s fight against illicit drugs.
Convicts’ Assets Forfeited to Federal Government
As part of the judgment, the court ordered the forfeiture of assets linked to the convicts, marking a significant blow to their illicit trade. Properties seized include a Toyota Tacoma SUV, over $50,000 in cash, and more than N67 million in naira belonging to the convicts.
Additionally, the court approved the forfeiture of two high-value properties: House Number 6, Olokunola Street, Solebo Estate, Ikorodu, used to store the cocaine, and House Number J9, Road 3, Close 1, Victoria Garden City (VGC), believed to have been purchased with proceeds of drug trafficking. The properties will be sold, with proceeds remitted to the Federal Government.
Marwa: A Strong Message to Drug Cartels
NDLEA Chairman Marwa commended the officers and prosecutors who worked tirelessly to secure the convictions and forfeitures. He described the outcome as a “historic blow” to drug cartels in Nigeria, emphasizing that the agency is determined to dismantle drug trafficking networks and strip traffickers of their illicit wealth.
“This case serves as a strong warning to drug cartels that they will face severe consequences, including long jail terms and the forfeiture of all assets acquired through criminal trade,” Marwa stated. He reaffirmed the NDLEA’s resolve to safeguard Nigeria from the menace of drug trafficking.
This landmark case underscores the NDLEA’s effectiveness in disrupting drug trafficking operations and serves as a deterrent to others involved in illicit drug trade.
Implications for Nigeria’s Drug Enforcement Efforts by NDLEA
This case represents a landmark achievement for the NDLEA, showcasing its ability to dismantle a major drug cartel and secure justice through Nigeria’s legal system. The agency’s success in this operation underscores the effectiveness of its intelligence-driven approach to combating drug trafficking.
The forfeiture of properties and assets linked to the cartel also serves as a deterrent to other criminal organizations. By targeting both the individuals involved and their financial resources, the NDLEA has demonstrated its commitment to eradicating the drug trade in Nigeria. This case sets a precedent for future operations and highlights the critical role of collaboration between law enforcement and the judiciary in addressing the nation’s drug trafficking challenges.
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