Thai Woman Arrested in Lagos for Drug Trafficking as NDLEA Seizes Illicit Substances

NDLEA Arrests 24-Year-Old Thai National at Lagos Airport

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has apprehended a 24-year-old Thai woman, Patthaphi Winmonat, at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos, for alleged drug trafficking. The arrest occurred on February 20, 2025, at Terminal 2 Arrival Hall, as confirmed by NDLEA spokesperson, Femi Babafemi.

NDLEA operatives discovered illicit substances concealed in her luggage, leading to her immediate arrest. According to the agency’s statement released on Sunday, she admitted to being a hired drug courier.

“The suspect was arrested during inward passenger clearance from a Qatar Airways flight that arrived from Thailand via Doha, Qatar. She confessed that a drug cartel had recruited her and promised a payment of $3,000 for successfully delivering the illegal drugs in Nigeria,” the statement detailed.

NDLEA Intercepts Large Drug Shipments at Lagos Airport

In a related operation, NDLEA agents at Lagos airport intercepted 68 parcels of ‘Ghanaian Loud,’ a high-grade cannabis variant, weighing 42.2kg. The consignment was packed into crates for shipment to London. The interception took place on February 21, 2025, at the export shed of the airport.

Following investigations, three individuals linked to the illicit drug trade were apprehended. The suspects included two dispatch riders and the mastermind, Samuel Bitris, who was traced and arrested at his residence in Exodus Estate, Ajah, Lagos.

Major Drug Seizure at Port Harcourt Port Complex

The NDLEA’s success extended beyond Lagos, as operatives at Port Harcourt Port Complex, Onne, Rivers State, intercepted a large drug shipment. During a joint security inspection with Customs Service personnel and other agencies, officials discovered 49,000 pills of Tamol, a brand of Tramadol (225mg), concealed inside a 40-foot container.

NDLEA’s Commitment to Drug Control in Nigeria

Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), Chairman of NDLEA, commended the agency’s personnel for their unwavering efforts in curbing drug trafficking. He emphasized the importance of NDLEA’s dual strategy—reducing both the supply and demand of drugs—to combat the nation’s substance abuse crisis effectively.

“Our commitment to tackling drug-related crimes is stronger than ever. The recent arrests and seizures are proof that our operations are yielding results,” Marwa stated.

Conclusion

The recent arrest of Patthaphi Winmonat and multiple drug seizures highlight the NDLEA’s dedication to eradicating drug trafficking in Nigeria. With continued vigilance and international collaboration, the agency remains a formidable force in the fight against illegal substances.

For more updates on global drug enforcement efforts, visit the official website of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).