The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has thwarted a sophisticated drug smuggling attempt involving four Hajj pilgrims.
The suspects were apprehended at the Emerald Hotel in the Ladipo area of Oshodi, Lagos State, as they prepared to transport a substantial quantity of cocaine to Saudi Arabia.
The NDLEA’s raid led to the arrest of four individuals: Usman Kamorudeen, 31; Olasunkanmi Owolabi, 46; Fatai Yekini, 38; and Ayinla Kemi, 34. The suspects were found in two hotel rooms, actively engaged in the ingestion of cocaine pellets.
The agency recovered 200 pellets of cocaine, weighing approximately 2.20 kilograms, ready for transport.
Femi Babafemi, Director of Media and Advocacy for the NDLEA, disclosed the operation details, highlighting the agency’s proactive measures based on intelligence gathered about the suspects’ plans. The raid, which took place on Wednesday, was aimed at ensuring Nigeria does not become a transit point for international drug trafficking.
“The operation resulted in the seizure of 200 wraps of cocaine from the suspects’ rooms, with each room holding 100 wraps intended for ingestion. This successful intervention prevented the suspects from smuggling the drugs into Saudi Arabia,” Babafemi stated.
Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (Retd), Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the NDLEA, praised the Lagos State Command’s efforts and emphasized the agency’s commitment to combating drug trafficking. Marwa affirmed that the NDLEA would continue to pursue criminal elements exploiting religious pilgrimages for illicit activities.
“Our collaboration with Saudi authorities will ensure that those responsible for receiving these illicit drug consignments are also apprehended and prosecuted, preserving the integrity and image of our nation,” Marwa added.
The NDLEA’s successful operation sends a clear message about Nigeria’s zero-tolerance stance on drug trafficking, especially as it pertains to exploiting religious journeys for criminal purposes.
