The Digest:
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has secured the release of three Nigerian pilgrims wrongly detained in Saudi Arabia after being framed by a drug syndicate. The individuals, Maryam Hussain Abdullahi, Abdullahi Bahijja Aminu, and Abdulhamid Saddiq, were arrested in Jeddah when illicit substances were planted in their luggage during a flight from Kano.
Key Points
- The three pilgrims were arrested on August 6, 2025, after six extra bags containing drugs were tagged to their luggage without their knowledge.
- Their release on September 14–15 followed collaborations between NDLEA and Saudi Arabia’s General Directorate of Narcotics Control (GDNC).
- NDLEA credited President Tinubu, the justice, foreign, and aviation ministers, and the NSA for their roles in resolving the case.
- The frame-up was linked to alleged kingpin Mohammed Ali Abubakar (aka Bello Karama), arrested with five syndicate members in Kano.
- NDLEA reiterated its commitment to fighting drug trafficking while protecting innocent Nigerians from wrongful accusations.
- The victims are expected to return to Nigeria shortly.
- The case highlights the risks of criminal exploitation of air travelers and the importance of bilateral cooperation.
This successful intervention highlights the power of diplomatic engagement and judicial cooperation in safeguarding Nigerians against transnational criminal schemes and unjust treatment.
Sources: The Cable, NDLEA Briefing
