The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has successfully intercepted multiple drug consignments concealed in prayer beads, board games, and female clothing destined for the United States, Saudi Arabia, Italy, and Poland. This latest operation, driven by intelligence-led investigations, also led to the arrest of two suspects at Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos. Major Drug Interceptions at Lagos Airport One of the arrested suspects, Jakpor Egware May (43), was caught attempting to board an Air France flight to Italy with 190 parcels of tramadol and skunk. During interrogation, she admitted to purchasing the drugs with the intent to resell them abroad. Another suspect, Yahaya Fatai Ayinla (60), was apprehended at the MMIA export shed while trying to smuggle skunk hidden in clothing to New York, USA. Investigations further uncovered additional drug trafficking attempts through logistics firms in Lagos, where tramadol, molly, and loud were concealed in Vitamin C bottles and garments. In a more sophisticated concealment attempt, NDLEA operatives discovered 230 grams of cocaine ingeniously hidden inside prayer beads, locally made shoe soles, and board game packs. These consignments were being shipped to Saudi Arabia, Poland, and the United Arab Emirates. Nationwide Drug Raids and Seizures Beyond Lagos, NDLEA officers carried out extensive operations across multiple states, leading to major drug seizures and arrests: Major Drug Bust in Abia State One of the most significant busts took place in Abia State, where NDLEA officers raided Ntigha Community in Isiala-Ngwa North LGA. During the operation, Chinaza Nwogu (34), also known as “Young Money,” was arrested with: NDLEA’s War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) Initiative As part of its ongoing efforts to combat drug abuse, the NDLEA continues its War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) campaign, raising awareness in schools, workplaces, and communities. Recent sensitization efforts were conducted at U.P.E School, Ilara Epe (Lagos), Government Day Secondary School (Adamawa), and Agbegi High Grammar School (Kogi), among others. NDLEA Chairman’s Statement Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), NDLEA Chairman, commended officers for their dedication and reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to dismantling drug networks across Nigeria. He also issued a stern warning to traffickers, emphasizing that law enforcement remains vigilant and relentless in its mission to curb drug-related crimes. For more information on NDLEA’s ongoing anti-drug operations, visit NDLEA’s official website. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has announced significant achievements in its efforts to combat drug trafficking and abuse in Kogi State. Between January and December 2024, the agency arrested 284 suspects and seized over 5,232,575 kilograms of illicit drugs. It also confiscated counterfeit currency worth $2 million and ₦20.4 million in various denominations. Speaking at a press briefing in Lokoja, the Kogi State capital, the NDLEA State Commander, Mustapha Yahuza, highlighted the agency’s successes. Among these was the destruction of 10 hectares of marijuana plantations within the state. “These accomplishments are significant milestones in our fight against drug abuse and trafficking in the region,” Yahuza said. He attributed the progress to the commitment and professionalism of the agency’s personnel despite the challenges they face. The NDLEA’s drug seizures included Cannabis Sativa, Tramadol, Methamphetamine, Diazepam, Rohypnol, Exol-5, Cocaine, Codeine, Heroin, Pethidine Injection, Ergometrine Injection, and Nitrous Oxide. So far, 91 individuals have been convicted for drug-related crimes, with several cases still ongoing at the Federal High Court in Lokoja. In addition to enforcement, the NDLEA has actively engaged in drug abuse prevention and advocacy. Yahuza revealed that the agency sensitized 51 schools and organizations on the dangers of drug abuse in 2024. Furthermore, 195 individuals were counseled as part of its drug demand reduction initiatives. The commander issued a stern warning against drug consumption and trafficking, emphasizing the devastating effects these practices have on individuals, families, and society at large. He reiterated that the seized drugs and other exhibits had been handed over to relevant authorities for further investigation and prosecution. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
