The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has made a significant breakthrough in its fight against drug trafficking. In a recent operation at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos, the agency intercepted a sizable consignment of methamphetamine destined for the United Kingdom. The seizure, with a street value of N567 million, was concealed in custard containers as part of a consolidated cargo. The NDLEA’s relentless efforts to combat drug trafficking resulted in the arrest of the drug baron, Charles Chinedu Ezeh, and the involved freight agent, Nwobodo Chidiebere.
According to Femi Babafemi, the Director of Media and Advocacy for the NDLEA, the interception took place on Tuesday, May 16. Highly trained NDLEA operatives at the airport identified the illicit drug consignment weighing 30.10 kilograms. The methamphetamine, concealed cleverly within custard containers, was part of a shipment bound for London. This successful operation demonstrates the agency’s commitment to curbing drug trafficking and protecting the society from the devastating effects of illicit drugs.
Investigations into the drug seizure led the NDLEA to the mastermind behind the shipment, Charles Chinedu Ezeh. While claiming to be a businessman dealing with goods in Onitsha, Anambra State, it was discovered that Ezeh had been living in London until December 10, 2022. Following his involvement in a drug-related offense in the UK, he fled to Nigeria. Since his return, he has been evading detection by residing in various hotels. However, NDLEA operatives successfully traced him to his mansion located at No. 1 Hawawu Abikan Street, Lekki, where a thorough search was conducted. This search yielded vital evidence, including travel documents and property records, implicating Ezeh in the drug trafficking operation.
The NDLEA’s commendable efforts extended beyond the Lagos operation. In Adamawa State, a 32-year-old notorious drug dealer and ex-convict, Prince Ikechukwu Uzoma, was apprehended with 1 kilogram of skunk. Furthermore, in Kaduna, a 63-year-old man named Bulus Mikah was arrested with over 5 kilograms of opioids. These successful operations showcase the NDLEA’s commitment to combating drug trafficking nationwide.
The NDLEA’s operations were not limited to Lagos, Adamawa, and Kaduna. Their dedicated operatives also made several arrests in Kwara, Oyo, Borno, and Anambra states. These arrests underscore the agency’s proactive stance in dismantling drug networks and ensuring the safety and well-being of Nigerians. The NDLEA continues to strive for a drug-free society, making significant strides in disrupting the supply chains of illicit drugs and bringing drug traffickers to justice.
The NDLEA’s recent interception of a substantial methamphetamine consignment bound for the UK demonstrates their unwavering commitment to combatting drug trafficking. By arresting the drug baron and the involved freight agent, the agency has disrupted a significant drug network. The successful operations in Lagos, Adamawa, Kaduna, and other states highlight the NDLEA’s nationwide impact. Their relentless efforts contribute to safeguarding society, preventing the devastating consequences of drug abuse, and working towards a drug-free Nigeria