Major Drug Seizures in Nationwide Operation
Officers from the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have made significant strides in a nationwide operation, seizing and destroying over 65,000 kilograms of skunk. The agency also intercepted shipments of cocaine and opioids destined for the United Kingdom and Australia, cleverly concealed within cardboard walls.
Coordinated Raids Lead to Significant Busts
The NDLEA conducted coordinated raids in several states, including Delta, Kaduna, Edo, Ogun, Kano, Oyo, Taraba, and the Federal Capital Territory. These joint operations underscore the agency’s intensified efforts to combat drug trafficking and abuse across Nigeria.
Interceptions in Lagos
At a delivery company in Lagos, NDLEA operatives intercepted 170 grams of cocaine hidden within the walls of a cardboard box filled with clothes meant for Australia. In another shipment headed for the UK, officers recovered a substantial haul, including 200 ampoules of pentazocine injection, 1,100 tramadol capsules, and 100 ampoules of promethazine injection, all concealed in a single carton.
Destruction of Cannabis Farms in Delta State
In Delta State, NDLEA operatives targeted cannabis farms, specifically in Ejonu village within the Ukwani Local Government Area and Ologun village in Ughelli North LGA. The operation resulted in the destruction of 65,000 kg of skunk cultivated across 26 hectares.
Notable Arrests in Kaduna
During the operation held from May 10 to May 12, officers arrested two suspects: 52-year-old Ifanychukwu Peter and 30-year-old Godwin Vincent Osadella. Additionally, in Kaduna State, authorities apprehended 42-year-old Hussaini Suleiman after seizing 361 kilograms of skunk during a raid in the Dan Magaji area of Zaria town. Officers also uncovered 1,989 rounds of RLA 7.62mm ammunition, which were concealed in garri bags along the Abuja-Kaduna Expressway. The suspect, Abdullahi Hassan, along with the ammunition, was subsequently transferred to another security agency for further inquiry.
Innovative Drug-Infused Products in Abuja
In Abuja, NDLEA operatives arrested 29-year-old entrepreneur Ogadi Peter for allegedly producing drug-infused cakes and cookies for social gatherings. The arrest occurred at his residence in Life Camp, where officers seized 800 grams of skunk and 2.7 kilograms of drug-laced baked goods.
Seizures Across Multiple States
The wave of arrests continued in Ogun State, where Aliyu Sani was apprehended with 181 kilograms of skunk. Meanwhile, in Taraba State, Sufiyanu Mohammed Misa was arrested with an astonishing 105,850 opioid tablets that included tramadol, diazepam, and Exor-5. In Oyo State, two suspects, Adeleke Olamide Aliyah and Aloba Abdulzeese, were detained in connection with 99 liters of skunk. In Edo State, further operations saw officers raid a farm in Ago Forest, destroying 1,388 kg of skunk.
Focus on Drug Education in Schools
The NDLEA has also initiated campaigns aimed at raising awareness about the dangers of drug abuse in schools across Oyo, Niger, Lagos, Katsina, Ekiti, and Kano states. This educational push demonstrates the agency’s commitment to not only enforcement but also prevention.
Leadership Commendation for Ongoing Efforts
Mohamed Buba Marwa, NDLEA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, expressed his appreciation for the officers involved in this extensive operation. He highlighted their dedication to maintaining pressure on drug trafficking networks while balancing law enforcement with public awareness initiatives. NDLEA spokesperson Femi Babafemi affirmed that these efforts reflect the agency’s resolute determination to tackle drug trafficking and drug abuse throughout Nigeria.
