NDLEA Strikes Major Blows Against Drug Trafficking in Abuja, Lagos, and Rivers

Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) carried out a midnight raid on January 11, 2025, seizing a 40ft trailer loaded with 2,217.6 kilograms of skunk at an abandoned fuel station in Kagini, Kubwa area of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja. The illicit consignment, a potent strain of cannabis, was being distributed into six vehicles for onward delivery to various Northern states. The vehicles seized included a Toyota Van, Toyota Camry, Toyota Sienna, JAC Hilux truck, Toyota Corolla, and a Vento Passat.

The operation, based on intelligence, also led to the arrest of a 42-year-old suspect, Isaac Monday Desmond. Preliminary investigations revealed that the consignment originated from Uzebba in Owan local council area of Edo State. In a related operation in Nyanya, FCT, two suspects, Anthony Nnamdi, 42, and Abba Ali, 27, were apprehended with 1.398 kilograms of cocaine and precursor substances used in making crack cocaine.

Cocaine Hidden in Face Cream Bottles Intercepted in Lagos

NDLEA operatives in Lagos intercepted 330 grams of cocaine concealed within face cream containers bound for Australia. The illicit cargo was discovered at a logistics firm during routine inspections by officers of the Directorate of Operations and General Investigation (DOGI). The strategic packaging of the cocaine underscores the lengths traffickers are willing to go to evade detection.

In a separate operation in Lagos, the Agency arrested Bariu Aliu, a traditional priest of the Igunuko shrine at Alpha Beach, Ajah, Lekki. Aliu, also known as Malo, had been on the run since October 2024, following the discovery of 2,760 kilograms of skunk at the shrine. Two of his accomplices were earlier apprehended, convicted, and sentenced, but Aliu was identified as the ringleader of the syndicate.

N1.1 Billion Codeine Shipment Seized in Rivers

In Rivers State, the NDLEA intercepted 338,200 bottles of codeine-based syrup valued at over N1.19 billion during a joint examination of two containers at the Port Harcourt Ports Complex, Onne. The operation, conducted in collaboration with Customs and other security agencies on January 9 and 10, 2025, followed processed intelligence that flagged the containers.

The seizure is part of the NDLEA’s ongoing efforts to dismantle the network of drug trafficking syndicates exploiting Nigeria’s ports for illicit drug shipments. The Agency’s commitment to intercepting high-value drug consignments reaffirms its resolve to combat the drug menace and ensure public safety.

These successive operations underscore the NDLEA’s unrelenting efforts to disrupt drug trafficking networks across Nigeria. With heightened intelligence, strategic planning, and inter-agency collaboration, the Agency is setting new benchmarks in the fight against drug-related crimes.

NDLEA Arrests Suspect with 24.2kg of Cannabis and 40,800 Opioid Pills in Kano

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has made a significant breakthrough in its fight against drug trafficking and abuse. On Thursday, January 9th, 2025, a 23-year-old suspect, Habibu Ya’u, was arrested during a raid by NDLEA operatives at Gadar Tamburawa along Zaria Road in Kano State. During the operation, officers recovered 45 blocks of cannabis weighing 24.2kg and 40,800 pills of opioids, including tramadol.

This arrest highlights NDLEA’s commitment to curbing drug abuse and trafficking in Nigeria. The swift and coordinated action by the operatives underscores the agency’s operational efficiency. The seized substances, capable of causing widespread harm in society, reflect the agency’s proactive approach in addressing the nation’s drug-related challenges.

WADA Sensitization Campaigns Expand Across the Nation

In addition to enforcement operations, NDLEA intensified its War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) awareness campaigns across the country in the past week. The agency organized sensitization activities targeting schools, worship centers, workplaces, and local communities. Notable events included an enlightenment lecture for students and staff at Ijaye Housing Estate Junior Secondary School in Lagos State, a sensitization session for surrendered Boko Haram members at the Hajj Camp in Maiduguri, Borno State, and an advocacy visit to the District Head of Danbatta, Dr. Mansur Mukhtar, in Kano State.

The WADA campaigns aim to address the root causes of drug abuse by educating citizens on its dangers and promoting community-driven solutions. NDLEA’s Chairman/CEO, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), commended the dedication of officers from various commands, including DOGI, FCT, PHPC, Lagos, and Kano, for their balanced approach to reducing drug supply and demand. He emphasized that the agency’s combined efforts in enforcement and education are crucial for creating a drug-free Nigeria.