NDLEA Arrests Businessman for Swallowing 90 Wraps of Cocaine, Smashes Major Syndicates Across Nigeria

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has intensified its anti-drug campaign with multiple high-profile arrests and massive drug seizures across Nigeria, reflecting its determination to curb drug trafficking and abuse.

Businessman Arrested for Ingesting Cocaine

Osuoha Christian Iheanacho, a 50-year-old businessman, was apprehended at the Akanu Ibiam International Airport (AIIA), Enugu, on November 20th, 2024. Osuoha, who owns a phone accessories business in Lagos and Gabon, had ingested 90 wraps of cocaine weighing 2.019 kilograms. He was arrested upon arrival from Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, following months of surveillance. Investigations revealed he undertook a convoluted travel route to evade detection but was already on the NDLEA’s watchlist.

Cocaine Syndicates Crushed in Lagos

On November 21st, a Lagos-based cartel headed by Ndive Maxwell Obinna was busted in Ago Palace Way, Okota, Isolo. Obinna and five associates were arrested, with 2.412 kilograms of cocaine recovered. Another syndicate led by Chinese national Tianzhen Yen, alias “Jackie,” was dismantled in Ikeja. Yen was arrested at a hotel, and 750 grams of cocaine, methamphetamine, and other exhibits were seized.

Major Seizures at Ports

At the Tincan seaport in Lagos, operatives intercepted 92 parcels of cannabis strain “Loud” concealed in imported vehicles. Meanwhile, in Rivers State, a joint operation at Onne Port uncovered containers carrying 168,000 bottles of codeine-based syrup and 4.5 million pills of tramadol. The combined street value of these seizures is estimated at N4.326 billion.

Arrests Across States

• In Ekiti, operatives arrested a physically challenged woman with cannabis derivatives.
• In Edo, large cannabis hauls totaling over 1,200 kilograms were seized during raids.
• In Kano and Bauchi, over 169 kilograms of cannabis were intercepted, with multiple arrests.

WADA Sensitization Programs

The NDLEA intensified its War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) initiative, organizing lectures and outreach programs across schools and communities in Katsina, Enugu, Rivers, Kano, and Ekiti states.

NDLEA Chairman Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd) praised the officers’ efforts, emphasizing the importance of both drug supply reduction and public awareness campaigns.

These operations underscore the NDLEA’s relentless pursuit of a drug-free Nigeria.