NDLEA Seizes Massive Codeine Shipment Worth Over N7 Billion, Busts Drug Rings Nationwide

Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) intercepted 6,125 cartons of codeine syrup, containing 1,050,000 bottles worth over ₦7.35 billion, at the Port Harcourt Ports complex in Onne, Rivers State.

The seizure, made from six containers on June 29, 2024, was the third such interception in four weeks. This operation was a result of credible intelligence and diligent tracking by a special NDLEA unit, in partnership with the Port Harcourt Ports Command and other security agencies, including the Customs Service.

At Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos, NDLEA officers arrested two passengers on June 21 who tested positive for ingesting illicit substances while traveling to Doha.

The suspects, Aikhomoun Daniel (alias Oladapo Olanrewaju) and Ayigoro Waheed Omobolaji, were taken into custody. Daniel expelled 90 wraps of cocaine weighing 1.022 kg, while Ayigoro discharged 60 wraps weighing 662 grams.

Further investigation revealed that Daniel had stolen his late uncle’s identity to obtain a Schengen visa.

Additionally, 40.32 kg of “Loud,” a strong strain of cannabis, was recovered from a Toyota Tacoma truck along Lekki-Ikoyi Road on June 28, after the driver fled upon noticing NDLEA operatives.

In Abuja, NDLEA operatives disrupted a drug party titled “Go Hard or Go Home. Pick Your Poison,” arresting 60 suspects at an apartment in Sun City Estate.  

Six suspects were found with ecstasy and cannabis. The NDLEA Chairman, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), directed the release of 20 suspects who tested negative for drugs, while 33 others who tested positive were to report for treatment and counseling.

In Edo State, four suspects were arrested in a forest in Ugun, Igueben LGA, where NDLEA operatives destroyed 18,632.22 kg of cannabis on 7.45 hectares of farmland.

The NDLEA continued its “War Against Drug Abuse” (WADA) sensitization activities across the country, reaching schools, worship centers, and communities.

Locations included First Technical University in Ibadan, Government Day Secondary School in Yola, Ezeike High School in Anambra, and Mount Zion Anglican Church in Akure.

Commending the officers involved in these operations, Brig. Gen. Marwa warned drug cartels that the NDLEA, in collaboration with stakeholders, would remain vigilant and proactive in combating drug trafficking.