NDLEA Stops Drug Trafficking Plot Using Food Containers
By Ranti Thomas
Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency have intercepted cocaine and cannabis shipments concealed in food flasks and snack packs in a series of coordinated operations across Nigeria.
The most significant seizure occurred at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos, where officers discovered 12 parcels of cocaine hidden in the false bottom of food flasks bound for the United Kingdom.
The drugs, weighing 2.80 kilograms, were uncovered during a routine inspection at the airport export shed ahead of a Virgin Atlantic flight.
Two cargo agents were immediately arrested in connection with the attempt to export the drugs. They were identified as Ama Obinna Ufeim and Ogabi Monday Akorede.
Further investigations led to the arrest of a 52-year-old freight forwarder, said to be the sender of the consignment.
In another operation at the same airport, NDLEA operatives intercepted 2.90 kilograms of a strong cannabis strain known as “Loud.” The substance was concealed inside snack food packages and arrived from the United States on a Delta Air Lines flight.
Two clearing agents were first arrested before the consignee, a young fashion designer, was tracked down and arrested in a follow-up operation in Lagos.
Beyond Lagos, the agency also carried out major operations in other states as part of its anti-drug campaign.
In Kaduna, officers intercepted a trailer loaded with cement that was used to conceal over 800 kilograms of cannabis along a major highway.
The driver of the vehicle was arrested during the operation.
In Cross River State, a raid supported by soldiers led to the discovery of a large cannabis plantation in a forested area.
Authorities said thousands of kilograms of the substance were destroyed during the operation.
In Edo State, officers uncovered another cannabis farm and arrested several suspects linked to cultivation activities.
A separate operation in Delta State led to the arrest of two individuals with nearly 90 kilograms of cannabis and seeds.
In Lagos, NDLEA operatives also intercepted large quantities of tramadol capsules and injections being moved towards neighbouring countries.
Another raid on Lagos Island led to the recovery of additional cannabis stored in a residential building.
The agency said all suspects arrested in the various operations are undergoing investigation and will be prosecuted.
NDLEA leadership commended officers for their continued efforts in disrupting drug trafficking networks across the country.
It also urged personnel to maintain pressure on traffickers while intensifying public awareness campaigns against drug abuse.