In a significant victory against drug trafficking, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has dismantled two major cross-border drug trafficking syndicates, seizing large consignments of cocaine, methamphetamine, and opioids worth billions of naira. The operation, which took place at Murtala Muhammed International Airport and various locations across Lagos, led to the arrest of six cartel leaders.
The NDLEA’s operation began with a raid on a warehouse in the Amuwo Odofin area, where operatives recovered 490,000 pills of tramadol and 81,519 bottles of codeine syrup. This initial success was followed by another raid in the Surulere area, where 12.7 million pills of tramadol were seized. The agency also intercepted 1.2 million pills of tramadol at the Skyway Aviation Handling Company (SAHCO) warehouse at the Lagos airport.
Femi Babafemi, the NDLEA spokesperson, highlighted the significance of these operations: “This is one of the largest seizures in recent times, and it underscores our commitment to eradicating drug trafficking in Nigeria. The intelligence-led operations were meticulously planned and executed, resulting in the arrest of key figures in the drug trade.”
Among those arrested were Oladele Sanya-Olu, Lawal Itunu Temitope, Sanamo Alla Daniel, Udeh Felix Monday, Musa Mutalib, and Unege Evans Icibor. The NDLEA is also on the lookout for three other suspects: Sarki Mubarak Salami, Abdullahi Aliyu (aka Aboki), and Monday Anwal, who are currently at large.
The agency’s efforts extended beyond Lagos, with significant seizures and arrests in other states. At the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, a businessman was intercepted with 86 wraps of heroin, while in Kano, operatives arrested major distributors of illicit drugs.
The NDLEA’s recent successes have been lauded by various stakeholders. The agency’s proactive approach and collaboration with international partners have been crucial in disrupting the supply chains of these dangerous substances. “We will continue to intensify our efforts and ensure that those involved in drug trafficking are brought to justice,” Babafemi added.
