The NDLEA has intercepted four Hajj-bound pilgrims allegedly smuggling cocaine, totaling 2.20 kilograms, in wraps. The suspects were caught ingesting the drug in a hotel in preparation for their flight. NDLEA Chairman, Buba Marwa, vows to clamp down on drug-related offenses disguised under religious pilgrimages, ensuring collaboration with Saudi authorities.
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has apprehended four Hajj-bound pilgrims suspected of carrying cocaine. Usman Kamorudeen, Olasunkanmi Owolabi, Fatai Yekini, and Ayinla Kemi were arrested in a hotel in Lagos while ingesting wraps of cocaine ahead of their flight to Saudi Arabia for the pilgrimage. NDLEA officers stormed their rooms and seized a total of 200 wraps, weighing 2.20 kilograms.
Each room contained 100 wraps of the Class A substance. NDLEA spokesperson Femi Babafemi stated that the agency acted based on intelligence and commended the Lagos command for the successful operation. NDLEA Chairman Buba Marwa expressed determination to continue tracking down criminal elements involved in drug trafficking, particularly those attempting to exploit the pilgrimage route.
Marwa emphasized collaboration with Saudi Arabian authorities to ensure that the intended recipients of seized illicit drugs are also apprehended. This arrest follows previous interceptions by NDLEA operatives, including 1kg of methamphetamine concealed in body cream containers bound for New Zealand and 2.5kg of cocaine and phenacetin hidden in a carton headed to Saudi Arabia in October 2023.
