The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has ramped up its efforts to combat drug trafficking, intercepting large consignments of cocaine, methamphetamine, and opioids destined for international markets, including the United Kingdom, Italy, Turkey, and Qatar.
In a statement issued on Sunday, November 17, 2024, by Femi Babafemi, the agency’s Director of Media and Advocacy, the NDLEA detailed its recent successful operations carried out in Lagos, Abuja, and other parts of the country.
In Lagos, operatives intercepted 4.4 kilograms of cocaine concealed in a consignment bound for the UK via Frankfurt. The mastermind of the operation, identified as Ekeocha Anayo Nelson, was arrested on November 8. Additionally, two businessmen, Adegbite Solomon and Anoke Kingsley Roomy, were apprehended while attempting to smuggle tramadol and other opioids to Italy and Turkey, respectively.
A separate operation in Abuja on November 15 led to the seizure of 1.8 kilograms of methamphetamine at a hotel in the Lugbe area. The drugs were reportedly intended for export to Qatar. The raid also uncovered a trans-border trafficking scheme involving 50,000 tramadol pills smuggled from Ghana into Lagos.
The NDLEA reported significant operations in other states, including the seizure of over 997 kilograms of cannabis in Edo State and 563.74 kilograms in Oyo State. Similar raids were conducted in Kano, Kwara, and Imo States.
Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), Chairman/CEO of the NDLEA, commended the agency’s operatives for their unrelenting efforts. He stated, “Our balanced approach to reducing both drug supply and demand is yielding significant results. These operational successes demonstrate our unwavering commitment to protecting Nigeria from the scourge of drug abuse and trafficking.”
The agency also highlighted the continuation of its War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) campaign, which seeks to engage schools and communities in raising awareness about the dangers of substance abuse.
The NDLEA’s intensified efforts reflect its dedication to disrupting the drug trade and safeguarding the nation’s public health and security.
