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 successfully apprehended Levi Chidiebele Ubodoeze, a wanted automobile spare parts trader, just three weeks after initiating a manhunt for his involvement in a foiled attempt to smuggle two kilograms of cocaine concealed in vehicle propellers to Angola. Major Drug Seizures Across Nigeria During a series of nationwide operations, NDLEA officers confiscated phenacetin—a known cocaine-cutting agent—disguised in semolina packs. Additionally, authorities intercepted a shipment of cannabis-infused candies originating from the United Kingdom and intended for sale in a Lagos children’s store. NDLEA spokesman, Femi Babafemi, revealed that intelligence-sharing collaboration between NDLEA and Angolan law enforcement led to Ubodoeze’s arrest. “Following the interception of the illicit drug consignment at a logistics company within Aspanda, Trade Fair Complex, Ojo, Lagos, on February 21, 2025, Angolan authorities promptly detained the expected recipient. Their interrogation exposed the identity of the sender, facilitating further action.” On March 6, NDLEA operatives tracked Ubodoeze to his residence in the Ago Palace Way area of Isolo, Lagos. He was captured while attempting to flee in a KIA Sport Utility Vehicle. A subsequent search of the vehicle unveiled 75.50 kilograms of phenacetin, carefully packaged and falsely labeled as semolina. Authorities also recovered a digital scale used for drug measurements from his home. During interrogation, Ubodoeze admitted to trafficking cocaine while operating a motor spare parts business in Ladipo Market, Mushin, Lagos. He disclosed that the Angolan recipient had warned him about their arrest, prompting his hasty attempt to vacate his residence before NDLEA operatives closed in. Interception of Cannabis-Laced Candies at MMIA At the import terminal of Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Ikeja, Lagos, NDLEA officers seized a cargo shipment of cannabis-infused candies smuggled from the United Kingdom. The consignment, which arrived on February 27 as part of a consolidated cargo via Allied Airways, was reportedly intended for a children’s store at 46 Ogunlana Drive, Surulere, Lagos. A forensic examination confirmed that the candies were laced with a potent strain of cannabis. Consequently, law enforcement detained Adedamola Taylor on March 4, following the prior arrest of a freight agent. During questioning, Taylor claimed that his UK-based brother, Babatunde Alabi, had sent the package for delivery to Musurat Lawal, who managed the store. A subsequent raid at the shop resulted in Lawal’s arrest. Other Major Drug Busts Across the Country In a separate operation on March 7, NDLEA officers at Shibiri, Ojo, Lagos, arrested two suspects, China Michael and Igbo Ekene, after discovering 248 compressed blocks of Ghanaian Loud, a high-grade cannabis strain, weighing 128kg concealed in their truck. The same day, three individuals—Osinachi Nwachukwu, Tochukwu Okafor Christian, and John Ugochukwu Mbakwe—were apprehended at Mosalasi Junction, Mushin, Lagos, with a staggering 301,600 pills of tramadol and other opioids. In Kano, a 65-year-old suspect, Yahaya Haruna, was caught with 19.2kg of skunk along Gadar Tamburawa Road on March 6, while Musa Bello (alias Jajere), aged 60, was found in possession of 212 bottles of codeine syrup in Medile, Kumbotso Local Government Area. In Abia State, NDLEA operatives raided the residence and warehouse of a 37-year-old suspect, Blessing Okoronkwo, at 19 Ubani Street, Aba, on March 4. The operation led to the recovery of 442,594 tramadol pills, various opioids, and 1,274 bottles of codeine syrup. Meanwhile, in Benue State, 50,000 pills of tramadol and exol-5 were seized from two suspects, Nwaeze Onyeabor, 47, and Tombo Thomas, 23, at Ugbema Junction, Katsina Ala, on March 5. In Osun State, law enforcement arrested Asimiyu Muibi, 50, with 162kg of skunk at Modakeke, Ife East, on March 4. Additionally, 95kg of the same substance was confiscated from a Toyota Camry with plate number KSF 72 GW during an Ede-based raid the same day. In Edo State, NDLEA officers raided the Amahor community forest in Igueben on March 5, where they destroyed 9,514.625kg of skunk cultivated on 3.8 hectares of farmland. A suspect, Etim Esien Stephen, 55, was apprehended during the operation. Nationwide Anti-Drug Campaigns Continue NDLEA continues its relentless War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) initiative, engaging schools, religious centers, workplaces, and communities in anti-drug awareness campaigns. Some notable locations include Model High School, Amaechi, Enugu; Bengy Secondary School, Agege, Lagos; Sunshine Secondary School, Akwa Ibom; and Government Day Secondary School, Adamawa. NDLEA Chairman/CEO, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), praised the agency’s dedicated officers for their effective drug supply and demand reduction efforts. He commended the MMIA, Lagos, Kano, Abia, Benue, Osun, and Edo commands for their unwavering commitment to keeping illicit drugs off the streets. NDLEA Official Website READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
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Discover how NDLEA achieved 18,500 arrests and seized 2.6 million kg of drugs in 2024, with support from the US government enhancing Nigeria’s anti-drug efforts. NDLEA’s Operational Successes in 2024 Highlight Effective Anti-Drug Efforts The Chairman of Nigeria’s National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig. Gen. Mohamed Marwa (retd.), has reaffirmed that the agency’s ongoing success in tackling drug supply and demand issues justifies the continued support it receives from the United States government and other global partners. Marwa made these remarks during the commissioning of a central exhibit office donated by the US government to the NDLEA in Lagos. The facility was officially handed over by the US Consulate General, Ms. Jo Ellen Georg, alongside other senior American officials. Expressing gratitude to the US for being a dependable ally in Nigeria’s anti-drug campaign, Marwa emphasized how the collaboration had significantly boosted the agency’s operational efficiency. He highlighted: “This donation underscores the importance of secure evidence management, which is vital for successful drug crime prosecutions. Beyond enhancing our operational framework, it also sets a higher standard for accountability and transparency in drug law enforcement.” Impressive Anti-Drug Achievements in 2024 Marwa disclosed that the NDLEA had made remarkable strides in 2024, with: He noted that these results reflected the agency’s balanced approach to both drug supply reduction and demand reduction efforts. Ongoing Challenges and Need for Global Support Despite these accomplishments, Marwa acknowledged that the fight against drug trafficking remains complex and evolving, necessitating continued international collaboration and innovation. He called on the US government and other partners to sustain their support to help Nigeria address the dynamic challenges posed by illicit drugs. US Government’s Endorsement and Commitment US Acting Consul General Ms. Jo Ellen Georg emphasized the shared commitment between the US and Nigeria in combating drug trafficking and crime across West Africa. She commended Marwa for maximizing the benefits of the partnership, stating that their joint efforts had yielded significant progress. She added that the new exhibit facility would offer a secure space for NDLEA officers to process arrestees, conduct investigations, and facilitate post-arrest interviews, further strengthening Nigeria’s anti-drug efforts. This continued cooperation underscores the global importance of tackling drug-related crimes, ensuring safer communities both in Nigeria and globally. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) achieved a groundbreaking victory against drug trafficking, seizing 2,139.55 kilograms of cocaine in a record-breaking operation in Ikorodu, Lagos, in 2022. Alongside this major haul, the agency apprehended four prominent drug traffickers and forfeited luxury properties, N67 million, and $50,000 tied to the cartel’s illicit trade. Court Judgments and Sentences The Federal High Court in Lagos, presided over by Justice Yellim Bogoro, delivered various jail terms totaling 28 years with hard labor to the convicted individuals. The convicts included 71-year-old Soji Jubril Oke, 55-year-old Wasiu Akinade, 67-year-old Emmanuel Arinze Chukwu, and 44-year-old Jamaican national Kelvin Christopher Smith. They faced six counts of charges under case number FHC/L/607C/2022. Babafemi, NDLEA’s Director of Media and Advocacy, revealed that the charges against the suspects involved conspiracy, managing a drug trafficking organization (DTO), and possession of over two tons of cocaine. A fifth suspect, Oguntolure Sunday, is still undergoing trial. Details of the Operation On September 18, 2022, NDLEA agents carried out an intelligence-driven raid at 6 Olokunola Crescent, Solebo Estate, Ikorodu. This operation resulted in the largest cocaine seizure in Nigeria’s history. By the following day, cartel leaders were arrested at various locations across Lagos. Convictions and Asset Forfeiture After over two years of meticulous prosecution, the court sentenced the convicts as follows: Luxury assets and funds forfeited to the Federal Government included: Additionally, two properties used for drug storage and acquired through criminal proceeds were permanently forfeited: The court ordered these properties to be sold, with proceeds remitted to the Federal Government. NDLEA’s Commitment to Justice NDLEA Chairman, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), lauded the agency’s officers for dismantling the cartel. “This operation marks a significant blow to drug traffickers, serving as a strong warning that they will not only face jail time but also lose assets acquired through illegal means,” he stated. Babafemi concluded by emphasizing that this landmark case underscores NDLEA’s dedication to eradicating drug trafficking and ensuring justice is served. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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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.
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The NDLEA Ogun State Command eradicated a six-hectare Indian hemp farm in Alaka village, arrested four suspects, and conducted successful operations against drug trafficking in 2024. In a determined effort to combat drug trafficking, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Ogun State Command, has destroyed a six-hectare Indian hemp farm located in Alaka village. During the operation, four individuals suspected of being involved in the illicit cultivation were arrested. Investigations into their activities are currently ongoing. This announcement was made by the NDLEA State Commandant, Tijani Rabe, during a press briefing held on Thursday in Abeokuta. The event also highlighted the agency’s 2024 achievements in combating drug-related crimes. NDLEA’s 2024 Performance Highlights Rabe disclosed that the command arrested 675 drug offenders in 2024, a year marked by intensified anti-drug operations. The agency also seized significant quantities of illegal substances, including: As part of its end-of-year strategy, Operation Closed Gates was launched, targeting drug merchants and syndicates. The operation effectively disrupted supply routes into Ogun State, yielding remarkable results. Public Awareness Campaigns Reach Thousands In addition to enforcement, the NDLEA ramped up its public awareness initiatives to address the root causes of drug abuse. The agency conducted: The command also secured 221 convictions against drug offenders, emphasizing its commitment to holding perpetrators accountable. Moving Forward The NDLEA continues to strengthen its efforts to eradicate drug trafficking and abuse in Ogun State and across Nigeria. With strategic enforcement and robust public education, the agency is building a safer and healthier society. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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NDLEA disrupts major drug smuggling operation from Canada to Nigeria, seizing millions in methamphetamine and Loud cannabis hidden in car parts ahead of Christmas celebrations. In a significant breakthrough, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has intercepted a multi-million dollar Christmas drug haul, successfully thwarting an attempt to smuggle methamphetamine and Loud cannabis from Canada into Nigeria. The Operation Authorities cracked down on two international drug syndicates responsible for concealing drugs in car parts and shipping them to Nigeria. Six suspects were arrested in connection with the case. The smuggled substances—methamphetamine, cocaine, and Loud (a high-grade cannabis strain)—were reportedly intended for distribution during the festive season. Law enforcement agencies from three continents collaborated to track the shipment, which traveled from Canada to Nigeria via Belgium. Upon arrival in Lagos, officials uncovered substantial quantities of drugs: Another major seizure in Rivers State resulted in authorities confiscating 636,600 bottles of codeine-based syrup based on intelligence reports. International Drug Networks Targeted This recent bust follows earlier disruptions in November, where authorities dismantled a syndicate smuggling 845 wraps of cocaine (18.72 kg) into Lagos from Brazil via Ethiopia. The NDLEA’s War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) campaign continues to play a pivotal role, raising awareness in schools, workplaces, religious centers, and local communities across Nigeria. Key Takeaway The interception of these drug shipments underscores Nigeria’s commitment to combating international drug trafficking and ensuring safety during the Christmas and New Year celebrations. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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The Nigerian Navy’s Forward Operating Base (FOB) Ibaka in Akwa Ibom State has handed over three individuals apprehended for alleged drug smuggling to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS). This move aims to ensure comprehensive investigation and possible prosecution of the suspects. Seizure Details According to a statement issued by Navy Captain Uche Aneke, Commanding Officer of FOB Ibaka, the arrests were made during a routine patrol on Monday, November 25, 2024, in the Bendero and Uta Uyata waterways. Navy gunboats intercepted a vessel carrying: The intercepted items were reportedly smuggled from Cameroon into Nigeria, highlighting ongoing cross-border trafficking challenges. Formal Handover On Wednesday, November 27, 2024, the suspects and the seized items were officially transferred to the NDLEA and NCS. Captain Aneke emphasized that the Navy followed the Harmonized Standard Operating Procedure on Arrest, Detention, and Prosecution of Vessels and Persons in Nigeria’s Maritime Environment, ensuring compliance with directives from the Defence Headquarters. Navy’s Stand on Maritime Security Speaking on the issue, Captain Aneke reaffirmed the Nigerian Navy’s unwavering commitment to combating illegal activities in Nigeria’s maritime domain. Under the leadership of the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, the Navy has intensified surveillance and intelligence operations to secure the nation’s waters. He issued a stern warning to criminal elements operating within FOB Ibaka’s jurisdiction: “Nigeria’s waters and coastal areas are not havens for illegal activities. Anyone involved in smuggling or other maritime crimes will be apprehended and prosecuted.” Implications for Maritime Security This incident underscores the importance of inter-agency collaboration in addressing the growing menace of drug trafficking and smuggling in Nigeria. By transferring the suspects and items to appropriate authorities, the Navy has reinforced its role in protecting Nigeria’s borders and maintaining law and order at sea. READ ALSO:
