Operatives of a special unit of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have smashed three major illicit drug syndicates.
According to a statement by the spokesman of the anti-narcotics agency, Femi Babafemi, the syndicates were smashed in intelligence-led operations across parts of Lagos state, leading to the arrest of a baroness and four other kingpins with multi-billion-naira worth of cocaine, opioids and loud recovered from their hideouts.
One of the syndicates, led by Faith Nwankwo, a female head, was apprehended at her residence in FESTAC, Lagos. She had recently loaded a substantial quantity of tramadol into an unmarked vehicle. Following the operation, a search of her residence and a warehouse revealed a vast haul of tramadol pills, weighing a total of 1,916 kilograms.
In a separate operation, NDLEA operatives targeted a transnational syndicate engaged in the trade of cocaine and Canadian loud. This operation led to the interception of a vehicle loaded with cocaine and loud, meant for distribution. The operation also resulted in the arrest of Urama Chinemelum and Adelakun Oluade. A subsequent raid at Chinemelum’s residence uncovered additional loud.
Another operation focused on a syndicate involved in the diversion of ephedrine hydrochloride, a precursor chemical used in methamphetamine production. Two members of this syndicate, Udeh Ogbonna and Okonkwo Ifeanyi, were caught attempting to transport the substance. The search of the suspects led to the discovery of a substantial amount of US dollars on Ogbonna.
NDLEA operations extended to other states such as Ogun, Ondo, Edo, and Nasarawa, resulting in the seizure of large amounts of illicit substances. The agency successfully confiscated over 13,391.8 kilograms of skunk, as well as cannabis sativa. Notorious drug dealer Lekan Jimoh’s warehouse was targeted, leading to the recovery of significant quantities of illicit substances. Numerous individuals were arrested in connection with various drug-related activities.
Chairman and CEO of NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (Retd), praised the proactive and professional efforts of the Special Unit and other commands involved in the operations. He encouraged the continued vigilance and dedication of NDLEA personnel nationwide.
