The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has announced the arrest of three wanted kingpins in connection with a massive drug seizure, alongside the interception of a drug consignment destined for Oman.
In a statement by NDLEA spokesperson, Femi Babafemi, the agency revealed the apprehension of the suspects following the recent seizure of the largest heroin consignment at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos.
According to Babafemi, “The suspects were arrested after over two months they were declared wanted.”
The operation, which commenced on February 10, resulted in the recovery of 51.90 kilograms of heroin concealed within metal cutting machines. Additionally, 2.2kg of heroin was seized from the syndicate’s warehouse in Lagos.
Among the arrested suspects are Onyinyechi Irene Igbokwuputa, Frankline Uzochukwu, and Osita Emmanuel Obinna. The NDLEA also foiled an attempt to export a drug consignment to Oman, intercepting 20 parcels of cannabis concealed in a suspect’s luggage at the Lagos airport.
In other operations, the NDLEA intercepted a Peugeot car transporting 1,250,000 pills of opioids in Adamawa state, and apprehended suspects in connection with the seizure of cannabis blocks concealed in a vehicle in Bayelsa state.
Furthermore, NDLEA operatives raided a camp in Ondo state, arresting suspects and destroying a significant quantity of cannabis. Similar operations were conducted across different states, reinforcing the agency’s commitment to combating drug abuse.
Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Retd), commended the officers for their efforts and emphasized the importance of intensifying advocacy lectures to address drug abuse nationwide.
The NDLEA’s proactive measures underscore its dedication to curbing drug trafficking and safeguarding communities from the deleterious effects of illicit drugs.