In a series of daring operations, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has successfully intercepted substantial quantities of illicit substances across Nigeria, including cocaine, codeine, and cannabis.
The agency’s Director of Media and Advocacy highlighted these operations in a recent post on X (Twitter) on Sunday, 12th December 2024, emphasizing the ongoing commitment to combat drug trafficking in the country.
Key Operations and Seizures
In Lagos, NDLEA officers made a significant recovery, seizing 20 wraps of cocaine weighing 330 grams from a cargo shipment destined for Australia. This operation underscores the agency’s vigilance in monitoring international shipments.
A 40-foot trailer loaded with 2,217.6 kilograms of skunk—a potent cannabis strain—intercepted in Kagini, Kubwa, FCT Abuja.
Authorities seized the trailer during an operation, targeting drug trafficking and enhancing safety in the Federal Capital Territory.
At 1:20 AM on Saturday, January 11, 2025, authorities executed an intelligence-led operation that yielded significant results.
The operation resulted in seizing a large consignment, along with confiscating the trailer and six vehicles used for distribution.
Among those arrested was 42-year-old Isaac Monday Desmond, who was linked to the operation.
Additional Arrests and Discoveries
In another raid in the FCT, NDLEA officers apprehended two suspects, Anthony Nnamdi, 42, and Abba Ali, 27, at Nyanya. They were found in possession of a combined 1.398 kg of cocaine and a precursor substance used in preparing crack cocaine.
Additionally, NDLEA operatives at a logistics firm in Lagos recovered 20 wraps of cocaine concealed around face cream containers in a shipment bound for Australia. This clever concealment demonstrates the lengths traffickers will go to evade detection.
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On Thursday, 9th and Friday, 10th January 2025, a joint examination at the Port Harcourt Ports Complex in Onne, Rivers State, led to the interception of 338,200 bottles of codeine-based syrup, valued at over N1,190,168,200.00.
Intelligence processed by the agency prompted this operation, leading to strategic actions to address the emerging situation effectively.
Notable Arrests
In a significant breakthrough, authorities arrested Bariu Aliu, the traditional chief priest of the Igunuko shrine, after a three-month manhunt. Known as Malo, Aliu faced allegations tied to a previous seizure of 2,760 kg of skunk on October 25, 2024. His arrest comes after earlier convictions of two accomplices involved in the drug trade.
In Kano, NDLEA officers apprehended 23-year-old Habibu Ya’u during a raid on Gadar Tamburawa.
Authorities recovered 45 blocks of cannabis weighing 24.2 kg and seized 40,800 pills of opioids during the operation.
This successful mission showcases their commitment to combating drug trafficking and ensuring community safety against illegal substances.
To bolster enforcement efforts, the NDLEA has intensified its War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) campaign through various sensitization activities. Recent initiatives included lectures at Ijaye Housing Estate Junior Secondary School in Lagos and advocacy visits to the District Head of Danbatta in Kano State, promoting awareness against drug abuse.
Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), NDLEA Chairman, commended the agency’s officers across commands for their relentless efforts. He emphasized that their operational successes reflect a balanced approach, reinforcing the agency’s commitment to safeguard the nation from drug abuse.
The NDLEA’s recent operations illustrate a robust response to the ongoing challenges posed by drug trafficking in Nigeria. As the agency continues its enforcement and awareness initiatives, it remains determined to combat the illicit drug trade and protect the health and safety of the public.
