On the 10th of June 2024, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) successfully intercepted a shipment of 175,000 bottles of codeine from India. This seizure comes just one week after a similar shipment was seized in Rivers State. The agency’s Director of Media and Advocacy, Femi Babafemi, announced the interception and also revealed that the agency had made other significant arrests in multiple raids across the country.
In addition to the codeine shipment, the NDLEA also intercepted illicit drugs concealed in synthetic hair and ladies’ clothes that were meant for shipment to the United States. The drugs were carefully concealed and were only discovered during a joint examination by the NDLEA, customs service, and other security agencies. The agency received intelligence reports which prompted them to request a 100% examination of the shipment.
Furthermore, the NDLEA has been successful in arresting individuals involved in drug trafficking. One Nigerien was arrested with 4,000 pills of diazepam and 1.250kg of cannabis along the Kalgo-Birnin Kebbi Road. Another individual, Ibrahim Abubakar, was apprehended in Gombe with 6,740 pills of tramadol and 20,000 tablets of diazepam. Additionally, a suspect named Onyekachi Iwula was arrested in Benue State with 1,098 bottles of codeine-based syrup.
The agency’s operations have also led to arrests in Bauchi, Yobe, Oyo, Kogi, and Kaduna states. In Bauchi State, a 20-year-old lady named Hasana Usman was arrested with 25 blocks of cannabis sativa weighing 28.2kg. In Yobe State, Ali Mohammed was nabbed with 19,000 pills of tramadol 225mg. In Oyo State, a 57-year-old man named Oladimeji Samson was arrested with 79 blocks of cannabis sativa weighing 44.4kg and 48 grams of ecstasy. And in Kogi State, a suspect named Ali Mohammed was apprehended with 17,980 pills of tramadol and other opioids.
The NDLEA has been relentless in its efforts to combat drug trafficking and abuse, and these recent seizures and arrests are a testament to their commitment. The agency’s operatives have been conducting raids and patrols across the country, targeting drug traffickers and intercepting illicit drugs. Their efforts are crucial in safeguarding the well-being of Nigerians and preventing the spread of drug-related crimes.
It is important to note that drug trafficking and abuse have severe consequences for individuals and society as a whole. The NDLEA’s actions are aimed at curbing this menace and ensuring a safer and healthier Nigeria. The agency continues to work tirelessly to identify and apprehend drug traffickers, intercept illicit drugs, and raise awareness about the dangers of drug abuse.
The fight against drug trafficking and abuse requires the cooperation and support of all Nigerians. It is crucial for individuals to report any suspicious activities or information related to drug trafficking to the appropriate authorities. Together, we can create a drug-free society and promote the well-being of our communities.
