The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) intercepted a cocaine smuggling attempt at Emerald Hotel in Ladipo, Oshodi, Lagos. Four suspects, intending to transport the drug to Saudi Arabia for the Hajj pilgrimage, were apprehended in the act.
According to Femi Babafemi, the agency’s Director of Media and Advocacy, the suspects – Usman Kamorudeen (31), Olasunkanmi Owolabi (46), Fatai Yekini (38), and Ayinla Kemi (34) – were caught preparing 200 cocaine pellets (weighing 2.20kg) for ingestion before their scheduled flight.
During the raid, NDLEA operatives discovered the drug concealed in the suspects’ hotel rooms, with each room containing 100 wraps of cocaine. The agency acted swiftly, preventing the illicit substance from leaving Nigerian borders.
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Buba Marwa, the NDLEA boss, emphasized the agency’s commitment to collaboration with Saudi Arabian authorities to track down and prosecute recipients of intercepted drug shipments in Saudi Arabia.
This operation underscores the NDLEA’s dedication to combating drug trafficking and ensuring the safety and integrity of international travel, especially during significant events like the Hajj pilgrimage.
