The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has intercepted significant illicit shipments of cocaine and Loud, a synthetic strain of cannabis, at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA). The drugs were cleverly concealed in various items, including incense candles, game packs, dry hibiscus leaves, and ladies' native wear. The agency's spokesman, Femi Babafemi, revealed that suspects linked to these smuggling attempts have been arrested, marking a significant blow to drug syndicates and courier firms attempting to traffic drugs in and out of Nigeria.
In a detailed statement on Sunday, July 20, Babafemi reported the arrest of businessman Abdulwahab Owolabi Alebiosu at his Lekki residence. Alebiosu's consignment of 40 parcels of Loud, weighing 20.30 kilograms, was hidden in chessboards and other game sets from Canada and intercepted at Lagos airport. Additional drug paraphernalia and four vaping machines were found at his home and business premises. In a separate operation, NDLEA operatives at the NAHCO export shed intercepted two jumbo bags bound for Pakistan, containing food items concealing cocaine and Loud.
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The NDLEA's efforts extended beyond Lagos. In Kebbi State, a 48-year-old one-legged man, Amadu Garba, was arrested with 67 kilograms of cannabis. Meanwhile, in Abuja, operatives apprehended two suspects transporting 30 kilograms of cannabis from Lagos to Nasarawa State. Numerous other operations across the country led to the seizure of significant quantities of illicit drugs and the arrest of multiple suspects, demonstrating the agency's relentless commitment to combating drug trafficking.
NDLEA Chairman, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), commended the officers for their successful operations and urged them to maintain their efforts in reducing both drug supply and demand. The agency's War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) campaign continues to educate and sensitize communities, schools, and workplaces about the dangers of drug abuse, underscoring the NDLEA's comprehensive approach to tackling the drug menace in Nigeria.
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