The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has recently made significant seizures and arrests, as detailed by Femi Babafemi, the agency’s Director of Media and Advocacy:
1. **Seizure in Rivers**: NDLEA intercepted 6,125 cartons of codeine syrup at the Port Harcourt Ports complex, Onne, Rivers State. The intercepted drugs, totaling 1,050,000 bottles with a street value of over ₦7.3 billion, were found in six containers. This seizure marks the third such operation in the past four weeks, achieved through credible intelligence and meticulous tracking by NDLEA’s special operations unit.
2. **Collaborative Efforts**: The operation involved collaboration with the Port Harcourt Ports Command of NDLEA, as well as other security agencies including the Nigeria Customs Service. Together, they conducted a thorough joint examination of the containers, leading to the successful recovery of the illicit drugs.
3. **Airport Arrests**: At the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos, NDLEA officers arrested two passengers attempting to travel to Doha via Qatar Airways. The suspects, identified as Aikhomoun Daniel (alias Oladapo Olanrewaju) and Ayigoro Omobolaji, were found to have ingested illicit substances. Daniel excreted 90 wraps of cocaine weighing 1.022kg, while Ayigoro excreted 60 wraps weighing 662 grams. Further investigation revealed that Daniel had assumed his late uncle’s identity to obtain a Schengen visa.
These operations highlight NDLEA’s continued efforts to combat drug trafficking and abuse in Nigeria, demonstrating their commitment to intercepting illegal substances and apprehending those involved in drug-related crimes.