NDLEA Intensifies War Against Drug Trafficking: High-Profile Arrests, Major Seizures Across Nigeria
In a sweeping crackdown on illicit drug trafficking, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has arrested multiple suspects across Nigeria, including a Lekki-based businessman involved in the importation of a significant consignment of cannabis from the United States.
Lekki Businessman Nabbed in Undercover Sting Operation
The NDLEA announced the arrest of Arokodare Damil Ebenezer, a 43-year-old entrepreneur and owner of Damillionz Takeout, following a meticulously planned operation. The suspect was apprehended on Monday, March 24, 2025, at Bay Lounge, Admiralty Way, Lekki, where he had gone to receive a fresh shipment of 60 parcels of Loud, a potent strain of cannabis smuggled into Nigeria from the U.S.
According to Femi Babafemi, Director of Media & Advocacy at NDLEA Headquarters, Abuja, the agency had earlier intercepted seven large cartons containing the illicit substance at a Lagos logistics company on March 12. A subsequent search of Ebenezer’s Lekki residence yielded 94 grams of cannabis, a crusher, and other drug paraphernalia, bringing the total seizure from him to 32.24 kilograms.
“The suspect admitted to starting his drug trade in 2017,” Babafemi revealed, underscoring the long-running nature of the illegal operation.
Airport Interception: Italy-Bound Trafficker Caught with Tramadol
In a parallel operation, NDLEA officers at Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Ikeja, Lagos, thwarted an attempt by Omoruyi Terry, a frequent traveler and logistics agent, to smuggle 1,400 pills of Tramadol 225mg (800 grams) to Italy. The suspect was intercepted at the screening point of Terminal 2 while attempting to board a Qatar Airways flight.
Investigations revealed that Omoruyi, who is based in Italy, had been using his travel status to facilitate drug shipments.
Nationwide Raids: Major Drug Busts in Katsina, Edo, Niger, Enugu, Kwara, and Oyo
The NDLEA’s latest operations extended beyond Lagos, with significant busts recorded in multiple states:
1. Katsina: Village Raid Uncovers Massive Drug Cache
- Four suspects—Baraka Abubakar (40), Haruna Alitine (23), Muhammad Babangida (20), and Hamisu Lawal—were arrested in Godai village, Daura LGA, following an intelligence-led raid.
- 684 blocks of compressed skunk (423kg) and 86,000 Diazepam pills were recovered.
- The suspects were caught repackaging the Diazepam tablets, while Baraka, the only female suspect, was found with large quantities of skunk in her home.
2. Edo: 13,198kg of Cannabis Destroyed in Forest Raids
- Between March 24 and 28, NDLEA operatives raided and destroyed four major cannabis plantations in:
- Uhen Forest (Ovia North East LGA)
- Sobe Forest (Owan West LGA)
- Amahor Forest (Igueben LGA)
- An additional 158kg of cannabis was seized for prosecution.
3. Niger: Interstate Traffickers Intercepted
- A black Toyota Corolla (SLM 137 SV) was stopped along the Mokwa-Jebba road, leading to the arrest of Paul Christopher (46) and Lucky Star Anumie with 179 blocks of compressed skunk (77.6kg) hidden in the car’s false bottom.
- In a separate operation, 50kg of skunk was recovered from the home of a fleeing suspect, Isa Iliya, in Wawa village, Borgu LGA.
4. Enugu, Kwara, Oyo: Market and Street Busts
- 108.5kg of skunk was seized from lockup shops at Aria New Market, Enugu.
- Abdulrazak Saka was arrested in Kilako, Ilorin (Kwara), with 25kg of cannabis.
- In Olomi Academy, Ibadan (Oyo), Suli Saheed (50) was caught with 2.5kg of Ghanaian Loud and 515g of Colorado.
NDLEA Chairman Commands Officers, Vows Sustained Crackdown
Reacting to the operations, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), NDLEA Chairman/CEO, praised the officers of MMIA, DOGI, Edo, Kwara, Niger, Enugu, Oyo, and Katsina commands for their relentless efforts.
“These arrests and seizures demonstrate our unwavering commitment to dismantling drug trafficking networks across Nigeria,” Marwa stated. “We will continue to pursue traffickers, disrupt supply chains, and ensure that those involved face the full wrath of the law.”
Implications and Next Steps
The NDLEA’s latest crackdown highlights:
✔ Increased surveillance at airports, seaports, and land borders.
✔ Intelligence-driven operations targeting high-profile traffickers.
✔ A nationwide sweep against cannabis farms and distribution networks.
With drug abuse and trafficking remaining a major security and public health challenge, the NDLEA has signaled that 2025 will see even stricter enforcement.
Key Takeaways
- Lekki businessman arrested for importing 32.24kg of cannabis from the U.S.
- Italy-bound trafficker intercepted with 1,400 Tramadol pills at Lagos airport.
- 684 blocks of skunk (423kg) + 86,000 Diazepam pills seized in Katsina.
- 13,198kg of cannabis destroyed in Edo forests.
- NDLEA warns drug cartels: “We are coming for you.”