By HeapNews
In a series of coordinated operations across Nigeria, operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have intercepted large quantities of illicit substances, arrested multiple suspects, and dismantled major drug syndicates. The operations, conducted between January 9 and 11, 2025, highlight the agency’s intensified efforts to combat drug trafficking and abuse nationwide.
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Massive Skunk Seizure in Abuja
A 40-foot trailer loaded with 2,217.6 kilograms of skunk, a potent strain of cannabis, was intercepted in an intelligence-led operation at an abandoned fuel station in Kagini, Kubwa area of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja. The operation, carried out at 1:20 am on Saturday, January 11, led to the confiscation of six distribution vehicles, including a Toyota Camry, a Toyota Sienna bus, and a JAC Hilux truck. A suspect, 42-year-old Isaac Monday Desmond, was arrested. The consignment had been loaded in Uzebba, Edo State, and was destined for Northern states.
Cocaine and Precursor Substances Recovered
In Nyanya, FCT, two suspects, Anthony Nnamdi (42) and Abba Ali (27), were arrested with 1.398 kilograms of cocaine and a precursor substance used to prepare crack cocaine. Meanwhile, in Lagos, officers of the Directorate of Operations and General Investigation (DOGI) uncovered 330 grams of cocaine concealed in face cream containers in a shipment bound for Australia.
Major Codeine Haul in Rivers State
A massive consignment of 338,200 bottles of codeine-based syrup, valued at over ₦1.19 billion, was intercepted at the Port Harcourt Ports Complex in Onne, Rivers State. The discovery followed joint intelligence and examination operations by NDLEA operatives, Customs, and other security agencies on January 9 and 10.
Arrest of Shrine Chief and Syndicate Leader in Lagos
After a three-month manhunt, NDLEA operatives apprehended Bariu Aliu, alias “Malo,” the chief priest of the Igunuko shrine in Alpha Beach, Ajah, Lekki. The shrine was raided in October 2024, yielding 2,760 kilograms of skunk. Two of Bariu’s accomplices were previously arrested and convicted, while he is believed to be the leader of the syndicate.
Kano Raids Yield Cannabis and Opioids
In Kano, officers raided Gadar Tamburawa on Zaria Road, recovering 45 blocks of cannabis weighing 24.2 kilograms and 40,800 pills of opioids, including tramadol. A suspect, 23-year-old Habibu Ya’u, was arrested.
Nationwide WADA Campaign Intensified
As part of its War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) initiative, NDLEA conducted sensitization campaigns in schools, worship centres, and communities, including visits to Ijaye Housing Estate Junior Secondary School in Lagos, surrendered Boko Haram members in Borno, and the District Head of Danbatta, Kano.
Marwa Commends NDLEA Operatives
NDLEA Chairman Mohamed Buba Marwa praised the operatives for their successes, emphasizing the agency’s balanced approach to reducing drug supply and demand. He reaffirmed the NDLEA’s commitment to eradicating drug trafficking and fostering a drug-free Nigeria.