The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has announced a series of major seizures, intercepting thousands of kilograms of illicit drugs, while capturing a high-profile drug baron in Lagos State. The significant success was recorded after a sweeping nationwide offensive against narcotics trafficking.
The operations, which spanned multiple states over recent weeks, underscore the agency’s intensified campaign to dismantle drug syndicates across the country.
In Edo State, NDLEA Commander Mitchell Ofoyeju revealed that a patrol team, acting on intelligence, intercepted 1,455 kilograms of cannabis sativa in the early hours of October 29th.
The operation took place along the Okhokho–Isi Community route in Uhunmwode Local Government Area of the state. According to Mr Ofoyeju, the suspects abandoned two Toyota Sienna buses, one light blue (EPE 545 EV) containing 666kg of cannabis, and a second dark ash model (ABC 142 CD) loaded with 789kg, as they fled into the wind.
“The seizure took place at approximately 3 a.m. when a team of dedicated officers intercepted two Toyota Sienna buses suspected of transporting a substantial quantity of narcotics,” Mr Ofoyeju stated. He confirmed that while no arrests were made at the scene, investigations are ongoing to track down the culprits.
Notorious Drug Baron Apprehended in Lagos
In a significant breakthrough, NDLEA operatives arrested a wanted drug kingpin in Lagos. The 42-year-old suspect, who operated under the cover of being a businessman and hotelier, was caught at his Daisy Garden Hotel on Ago Palace Way, Isolo, in the early hours of November 15th.
A statement by the state’s NDLEA spokesperson Femi Babafemi, disclosed that the arrest followed weeks of intelligence and surveillance. The suspect was subsequently led to his warehouse in Pius Ezeobi Street, where operatives recovered 1,762.8 kilograms of a high-strength cannabis strain known as ‘Loud’, which was packed in 42 jumbo bags, and four cartons.
A substantial amount of foreign currency was also seized, including $11,600 US dollars, £2,000 British Pounds, €2,200 Euros, and CA$50 Canadian dollars, all in cash.
More Nationwide Seizures and Arrests
The agency reported a cascade of other successful operations across several states. In Osun, a massive consignment of 11,135 kilograms of skunk was intercepted in the Araromi-Okeodo forest reserve, with two trucks and seven suspects arrested.
· Edo (Additional): Further operations in the state led to the recovery of 1,902.1kg of skunk, arresting several suspects on major roads and in forested areas in Edo.
Other states of Nigeria where operational raids led to success are Ogun, Taraba, Adamawa, Nasarawa, and Kwara State.
Commending the officers, the NDLEA reiterated its commitment to eradicating drug trafficking. Edo State Commander Ofoyeju issued a stern warning to syndicates, stating “those who think they can evade the law, and exploit our communities through the illicit drug trade should think again. We are prepared, and committed to enforcing the law.”
The agency also urged continued public cooperation, emphasising that community intelligence is crucial to dismantling drug networks, while ensuring a safer future for all.