By Fatima Mukhtar
Nigeria’s National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has carried out a major nationwide operation against drug trafficking cartels, seizing tons of illicit drugs and arresting nine top cartel commanders.
The raids, conducted across Lagos, Kogi, Cross River, Edo, Enugu, Kebbi, Niger, and the FCT, intercepted methamphetamine, cocaine, skunk, and other substances hidden in engine cylinders, vehicle parts, and shipments from South Africa.
In Lagos, authorities recovered drugs hidden inside brake servos and at the Peti drug enclave, while in Edo, two women were arrested for selling drug-laced brownies online. In Kogi and Cross River, massive quantities of skunk were seized, with suspects arrested in Kabba and Ugep. In Kebbi and Niger, codeine and opioids were recovered, some disguised inside paracetamol packs.
NDLEA also intensified public awareness campaigns (WADA) in schools, workplaces, and communities nationwide.
NDLEA Chairman, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (rtd), warned cartels not to exploit the year-end festive season, saying:
“We will not relent in our fight against drug abuse.”
Authorities say investigations are ongoing, and operations continue to dismantle all remaining trafficking networks.
