NDLEA Intercepts International Drug Smuggling Operations, Arrests Two Suspects
The NDLEA intercepted various illicit drugs intended for the U.S., Saudi Arabia, Italy, Poland, and the UAE, leading to the arrest of two suspects at Lagos’ Murtala Muhammed International Airport. Drugs such as cocaine and tramadol were concealed in everyday items. The agency’s ongoing campaigns emphasize the importance of addressing drug abuse in society.
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has successfully intercepted efforts by drug trafficking organizations to smuggle narcotics from Nigeria to five different countries. In a statement, NDLEA spokesperson Femi Babafemi outlined the intended destinations as the United States, Saudi Arabia, Italy, Poland, and the United Arab Emirates. The seized substances include cocaine, tramadol, and other narcotics cleverly concealed in various items such as prayer beads and clothing.
According to Mr. Babafemi, two suspects have been arrested in conjunction with these smuggling attempts at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos. One individual, a 43-year-old businesswoman, was apprehended while attempting to board an Air France flight to Italy. A search of her luggage resulted in the discovery of 190 parcels of tramadol and cannabis, which she allegedly intended to sell in Italy.
Another arrest involved a 60-year-old suspect caught trying to ship a package under the guise of clothing. An inspection unveiled 400 grams of skunk hidden within the garments destined for New York. Additionally, NDLEA operatives intercepted over two kilograms of illicit drugs concealed in Vitamin C bottles and clothing, confirming these shipments were en route to the U.S. from logistics companies in Lagos.
Between March 10 and March 12, seizures included 230 grams of cocaine disguised within prayer beads and shoes, with shipments scheduled for Saudi Arabia, Poland, and the UAE. Despite these enforcement actions, the NDLEA continues its War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) sensitization campaigns throughout the country to address the ongoing drug abuse issues.
The NDLEA has demonstrated significant success in combating drug trafficking in Nigeria by intercepting various illicit consignments intended for international destinations. The arrests of the suspects indicate the agency’s proactive measures in curbing the operations of drug trafficking organizations. Continuous campaigns against drug abuse are essential to support these law enforcement efforts and promote awareness.
Original Source: gazettengr.com
