In a strategic crackdown, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has dealt a decisive blow to an extensive drug syndicate spanning Nigeria, South Africa, and Thailand. Over a fortnight of meticulously orchestrated operations in Lagos, Abia, and Anambra states, the agency apprehended five key members of the cartel. Their illicit drug shipments, intercepted at the NAHCO import shed of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Ikeja, Lagos, served as vital evidence in dismantling their nefarious network. Director of Media & Advocacy, Mr. Femi Babafemi, confirmed the successful operation, marking a significant victory in the ongoing battle against drug trafficking.
In the labyrinth of international air travel, a clandestine network stirred to life on the unsuspecting tarmac of the NAHCO shed. It was Sunday, the 20th of April, when whispers of the drug cartel’s downfall began to echo through the corridors of law enforcement. A cargo, innocently labeled and seemingly benign, arrived from the distant shores of Johannesburg, South Africa, nestled within the belly of an Airpeace airliner.
Days blurred into nights as meticulous surveillance and tireless investigation became the norm. Then, on a fateful Wednesday, the 24th of April, the first thread of unraveling caught the light. Umeh Chisom Peter, a figure shrouded in suspicion, emerged from the shadows to claim ownership of two of the suitcases. Little did he know, those innocuous cases harbored a sinister cargo—the synthetic strain of cannabis known as Loud, a prized possession of the syndicate’s Thailand-based member, Obum Michael.
As the authorities closed in, the truth lay hidden within the false bottoms of the suitcases. Four parcels concealed within two, a
puzzle waiting to be solved. Yet, amidst the tension and the clandestine dance of criminals and enforcers, justice prevailed. Umeh Chisom Peter was taken into custody, a mere pawn in the intricate game of cat and mouse.
Within the four suitcases lay not just 17.6 kilograms of Loud, but a testament to the resilience of law enforcement against the shadowy forces of illicit trade. And so, amidst the chaos and the whispers of apprehension, a beacon of hope emerged—a reminder that even in the darkest of nights, the light of justice will always find a way to shine through.
Another member of the syndicate, Mrs. Chiwendu Uche Ugbe whose South Africa based husband, Aloytus Uche Ugbe sent some of the consignments, was traced to Anambra state where NDLEA officers arrested her on Saturday 27th April while attempting to collect the drug parcels sent to her by her husband.
Two other suspects: Onyejakor Francis Chimezie and Naaji Valentine Chukwukere, with links to the cartel were also arrested in parts of Lagos on Monday 29th April. Their arrest led to another operation in Abia state where Mrs. Chinazo Osigwe was arrested when she was to pick up some of the parcels containing Loud and drug candies sent by her husband, Osigwe Chidiebere Anthony who is equally operating from South Africa.
Meanwhile, NDLEA operatives on stop and search operation along Abuja-Abaji highway on Wednesday 1st May intercepted a 40-ft gas tanker marked RBC 77XG and upon a thorough search discovered 511 jumbo sacks of cannabis sativa weighing 4,752kg concealed in the gas tank compartment of the truck. The consignment was loaded into the tanker in Ondo state and meant to be delivered in Abuja for further distribution. Four suspects: Efe Abel Mikel, 39; Ebigide Cyril, 29; Ejechi Monday, 41; and Friday Benson Chukwudi, 39, have been arrested in connection with the seizure.
While two suspects: Aminu Umar, 25, and Anas Umar, 22, were arrested with 207.1 kilograms of cannabis sativa in their house at Unguwan Rimi, Basawa, Samaru, Zaria, Kaduna state on Monday 29th April, Bashir Umar, 35, was nabbed at Ladanai, Hotoro area of Kano on Friday 3rd May with 194 bottles of codeine syrup.
In Osun state, NDLEA operatives on Wednesday 1st May arrested an ex-convict, 51-year-old Suleiman Usman who is currently facing trial for another drug offence at the Federal High Court Osogbo. At the time of his latest arrest at Okinni town, Suleiman was found in possession of 4.4grams of Cocaine, 28.5kg of cannabis sativa, 20 tabs of rophynol weighing 6.2grams and 812 pills of tramadol. The following day, Thursday 2nd May, NDLEA operatives at Agbara checkpoint, Seme border, Badagry Lagos intercepted a Toyota camry car marked KJA 825 FT conveying 113 jumbo parcels of cannabis with a total weight of 64kg. The driver, Charles Amoni, 45, was promptly arrested.
In Bauchi state, NDLEA operatives on patrol along Bauchi-Jos road on Monday 29th April arrested Clement Chukwuka, 39, with 595 bottles of codeine; 38,260 pills of opioids such as tramadol, rohypnol and diazepam, while another suspect, Friday Ibochi was nabbed at NDLEA check point, Aloma junction, Otukpa, Benue state onTuesday 30th April with 66 blocks of cannabis weighing 33kg. In the same vein, 42-year-old Ifeanyi Stanley was arrested with 12kg of same substance at Swali Jetty, Yenagoa, Bayelsa state.
With the same vigour, the various commands of the Agency across the country
continued with the War Against Drug Abuse, WADA, advocacy campaign in the past week. Some of them include: WADA sensitisation lecture for students and teachers of Ekimogun Community Grammar School, Bolorunduro, Ondo East LGA, Ondo state; students of Lafenwa High School (Senior), Abeokuta, Ogun state; students of Sky Brain International School, Enugu Ezike, Enugu state; intending Muslim pilgrims on dangers of illicit drug trafficking, Katsina state and WADA advocacy visit to Olobaoke of Oba Oke land, Oba Adam Iyiola Bamidele Yusuf and his chiefs, Osun state as well as WADA advocacy visit to Lagos state First Lady, Dr. Mrs. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu.
In a resounding chorus of commendation, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Retd), the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, saluted the gallant officers and men stationed across multiple commands nationwide. Their valorous efforts, particularly in the MMIA, FCT, Kano, Kaduna, Osun, Seme, Bayelsa, Bauchi, and Benue Commands, were lauded for their unwavering dedication to duty.
Amidst the applause, General Marwa underscored the pivotal role played by these commands in the ongoing battle against drug abuse and trafficking. Their exceptional feats over the past week were not merely recognized but celebrated as a testament to their commitment to safeguarding communities and upholding the nation’s integrity.
Equally noteworthy was the emphasis placed on WADA advocacy lectures, which have become a cornerstone of the Agency’s outreach efforts. General Marwa extended his commendation to all commands for their proactive stance in intensifying these crucial educational initiatives. By disseminating awareness and knowledge, they are not only combating drug abuse but also empowering individuals to make informed choices for a healthier society.
In the tapestry of Nigeria’s fight against drug abuse, each command is a vital thread contributing to the fabric of progress. Through their collective efforts and unwavering resolve, they exemplify the spirit of service and resilience in the face of adversity. General Marwa’s words of praise serve not only as recognition but also as a rallying cry for continued vigilance and unity in the pursuit of a drug-free Nigeria.
