Lagos, Nigeria – August 18, 2024: A 57-year-old businessman en route to Vietnam was apprehended at Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, after excreting 1.71 kilograms of cocaine. The suspect, whose identity has not been disclosed, confessed to authorities that he had been paid $2,000 to act as a courier for the illicit drugs.
The incident occurred during routine checks conducted by officers of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA). The suspect, who appeared nervous, was subjected to a thorough examination, leading to the discovery of the drugs hidden within his system. Upon further questioning, he admitted to ingesting the cocaine capsules before boarding his flight, intending to deliver them to an undisclosed recipient in Vietnam.
The NDLEA spokesperson, Femi Babafemi, confirmed the arrest, stating that the suspect had been under surveillance for some time following intelligence reports about his involvement in drug trafficking. “This arrest is a significant breakthrough in our ongoing efforts to curb drug trafficking in and out of Nigeria. The suspect will be charged to court after the conclusion of investigations,” Babafemi said.
The businessman, who claimed financial difficulties drove him to accept the risky job, expressed regret for his actions. He is currently in NDLEA custody, where he is cooperating with investigators to identify other individuals involved in the drug smuggling operation.
This arrest highlights the increasing use of Nigerian airports as transit points for international drug trafficking. The NDLEA has intensified its efforts to combat this trend, deploying advanced technology and intelligence-sharing initiatives to intercept illicit drugs and apprehend those responsible.
The suspect faces severe penalties under Nigerian law, which include long-term imprisonment for drug trafficking offenses. The NDLEA has reiterated its commitment to ensuring that those involved in such illegal activities are brought to justice.
