LAGOS, NIGERIA — The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency has intercepted a female passenger with cannabis concealed in a palm oil keg. The agency also seized tramadol worth ₦6.98 billion at Apapa Port, Lagos.
The operations were disclosed on Sunday by the agency’s spokesperson, Femi Babafemi. He said the seizures were made in separate operations across the country.
Cannabis in Palm Oil Keg
Babafemi said the suspect was arrested at the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport in Kano. She was travelling to Saudi Arabia.
During screening, NDLEA operatives discovered cannabis hidden inside a keg of palm oil. The substance weighed 3.2 kilogrammes.
“The suspect was attempting to smuggle the drug to Saudi Arabia. Our operatives intercepted her during outward clearance of passengers,” Babafemi said.
₦6.98bn Tramadol Seizure
In a separate operation, NDLEA operatives seized tramadol worth ₦6.98 billion at Apapa Port. The drugs were concealed in two containers.
The containers were shipped from India. The agency said the tramadol tablets were packed in cartons and labelled as other goods.
“The seizure is one of the largest in recent times. We are intensifying our operations at the ports to prevent the inflow of illicit drugs,” Babafemi stated.
Arrests Made
Babafemi said three suspects were arrested in connection with the tramadol seizure. He said they are assisting the agency with its investigation.
The agency said it would continue to collaborate with international partners to disrupt drug trafficking networks.
What This Means
The seizures highlight the scale of drug trafficking in Nigeria. Cannabis and tramadol are commonly abused substances in the country.
The NDLEA has been stepping up its operations at airports, seaports, and land borders. The agency has recorded several major seizures in recent months.
What Happens Next
The suspects will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations. The NDLEA said it would seek the forfeiture of assets linked to the drug cartels.
For now, the agency has urged members of the public to provide information about drug trafficking activities. It said such information would be treated with confidentiality.
