Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) intercepted a massive haul of illicit drugs worth over ₦22.7 billion during separate operations at seaports in Lagos and Rivers States. The seizures included over 32 million tramadol pills at Lekki Deep Seaport and 1.4 million bottles of codeine syrup at Apapa and Port Harcourt ports, delivering a significant blow to transnational drug cartels.
The NDLEA's spokesperson, Femi Babafemi, disclosed that the drugs were seized from containers under surveillance by the agency, based on intelligence gathered. The operations were conducted with the collaboration of Nigeria Customs and other security agencies between October 7th and 11th, 2024.
In addition to the port seizures, a Thailand returnee, Oguejiofor Nnaemeka Simonpeter, was arrested at Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos on October 7th for attempting to smuggle 13.30kg of heroin concealed in backpacks. The heroin, valued at over ₦3.19 billion, was discovered in six backpacks hidden in two large suitcases.
Further nationwide operations led to the arrest of another suspect, Okelue Chidera, with 50,000 tablets of tramadol in Onitsha, and the recovery of 1,050kg of cannabis from a transit point in Edo State.
NDLEA Chairman, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), commended the officers for their dedication in curbing drug trafficking, noting the agency's commitment to both drug supply and demand reduction efforts across the country.
