NDLEA Smashes Negative International Drug Syndicate in Nigeria

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has disrupted an international drug syndicate operating across Nigeria, South Africa, and Thailand. The agency’s operatives have apprehended five members of the cartel in a series of meticulously planned operations spanning two weeks, culminating in the seizure of substantial illicit drug consignments at the NAHCO import shed of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos.

The unraveling of the syndicate commenced on April 20th when four large suitcases arrived at the NAHCO shed on an Airpeace airline flight from Johannesburg, South Africa. Following days of intensive surveillance and investigation, the first suspect, Umeh Chisom Peter, was apprehended on April 24th while attempting to retrieve two of the suitcases containing “Loud,” a synthetic strain of cannabis, from the shed. The consignment, concealed in false bottoms, contained a total of 17.6 kilograms of Loud and drug candies. Further investigations led to the arrest of other members of the syndicate, including Mrs. Chiwendu Uche Ugbe, Onyejakor Francis Chimezie, and Naaji Valentine Chukwukere, with connections to the cartel.

Seizure of Illicit Drug Consignments

During the operation, the NDLEA intercepted a staggering 4,752 kilograms of cannabis concealed within a gas tanker in Abuja, marking a significant blow to the illicit drug trade. This massive haul underscores the agency’s commitment to combating drug trafficking and dismantling criminal networks involved in the illegal drug trade. The successful interception not only disrupts the flow of drugs but also prevents the potential harm they could inflict on individuals and communities.

The agency’s relentless efforts to stem the tide of drug trafficking are further evidenced by the arrest of an ex-convict in Osun State found in possession of assorted illicit drugs. This arrest underscores the importance of robust law enforcement measures in curbing drug-related crimes and underscores the need for collaboration between agencies and international partners to tackle the global drug trade effectively.

Abuja-Abaji Highway Bust by NDLEA

On Wednesday, 1st May, NDLEA operatives conducting a routine stop and search operation along the Abuja-Abaji highway intercepted a 40-ft gas tanker marked RBC 77XG. Upon thorough inspection, they discovered 511 jumbo sacks of cannabis sativa weighing a total of 4,752kg concealed in the gas tank compartment. The consignment, loaded in Ondo state, was destined for Abuja for further distribution. Four suspects, identified as Efe Abel Mikel, Ebigide Cyril, Ejechi Monday, and Friday Benson Chukwudi, have been apprehended in connection with the seizure.

Kaduna and Kano Operations

In Kaduna state, on Monday, 29th April, two suspects, Aminu Umar and Anas Umar, were arrested at their residence in Unguwan Rimi, Basawa, Samaru, Zaria, with 207.1 kilograms of cannabis sativa. Similarly, in Kano, on Friday, 3rd May, Bashir Umar was nabbed at Ladanai, Hotoro area, with 194 bottles of codeine syrup.

Widespread Arrests Highlight Agency’s Vigilance

In Osun state, NDLEA operatives arrested a 51-year-old ex-convict, Suleiman Usman, who was found in possession of cocaine, cannabis sativa, rohypnol, and tramadol. Meanwhile, in Lagos, Charles Amoni was apprehended at the Seme border checkpoint with a significant haul of cannabis. The vigilance extended to Bauchi, Benue, and Bayelsa states, where several individuals were caught with various drugs, including codeine syrup and cannabis.

WADA Advocacy Campaign

Amidst the crackdown on drug trafficking, NDLEA also intensified its War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) advocacy campaign. Various commands of the agency conducted sensitization lectures across schools and communities. Notable efforts include lectures for students and teachers in Ondo, Ogun, and Enugu states, as well as outreach to Muslim pilgrims in Katsina. Additionally, the agency visited traditional leaders and government officials to seek their support in the fight against drug abuse.

Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Retd), commended the exemplary efforts of officers across multiple commands for their dedication and success in intercepting drug traffickers. He also praised the commitment to WADA advocacy, emphasizing the importance of community engagement in combating drug abuse nationwide

The NDLEA’s crackdown on the international drug syndicate and the seizure of significant drug consignments underscore the agency’s unwavering commitment to combating drug trafficking and ensuring public safety. By dismantling criminal networks and intercepting illicit drug shipments, the agency has dealt a severe blow to the illegal drug trade, safeguarding communities from the devastating effects of drug abuse and trafficking. This latest operation serves as a stark reminder of the challenges posed by transnational organized crime and the critical role of law enforcement agencies in addressing these threats to global security and well-being.