In a significant breakthrough against drug trafficking, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has apprehended three key members of an organized criminal syndicate involved in the illicit drug trade across multiple continents. This success follows the recent seizure of the largest-ever consignment of heroin at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos.
The operation, which commenced on February 10, 2024, led to the recovery of 51.90 kilograms of heroin concealed within metal-cutting machines at the SAHCO Import Shed of the airport’s cargo terminal. Further investigation led to the arrest of two wanted kingpins, Onyinyechi Irene Igbokwuputa and Franklin Uzochukwu, in Lagos and Awka, Anambra State, respectively, along with another syndicate member, Osita Emmanuel Obinna, in Lagos.
Additionally, NDLEA officers intercepted a drug consignment bound for Muscat, Oman, on April 18th. The attempt to export 20 parcels of cannabis weighing 9.80kg was thwarted, with the suspect apprehended at the airport.
Further crackdowns across Nigeria yielded significant seizures, including 1,250,000 pills of opioids in Adamawa state, cannabis in Ondo and Bayelsa states, and codeine syrup in Imo state. Multiple suspects were arrested in connection with these seizures, underscoring the agency’s concerted efforts to combat drug trafficking and abuse nationwide.
In tandem with enforcement actions, NDLEA intensified its War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) advocacy, conducting sensitization lectures across various institutions and communities nationwide. This multifaceted approach aims to address both the supply and demand sides of the drug trade, as emphasized by NDLEA Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Retd).
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The agency’s unwavering commitment to combating drug trafficking and abuse remains steadfast, with commendation extended to the dedicated officers and commands involved in these operations.
