A surprising twist has emerged in Nigeria’s ongoing drug crackdown, as a Lagos-based pastor and his wife were arrested with illegal substances.
The arrest has raised fresh concerns about the growing reach of drug trafficking networks across the country.
The NDLEA drug bust took place in Badagry, Lagos, where operatives intercepted a vehicle carrying concealed drugs.
Meanwhile, authorities say the arrest is part of a wider operation targeting multiple drug syndicates operating within and outside Nigeria.
According to officials, the suspects were stopped at the Gbaji checkpoint along the Seme border. A search of their vehicle was conducted, and drugs were found hidden inside.
In addition, 11 kilograms of skunk were recovered from secret compartments in their SUV. The suspects were identified as Afolabi Hodonu and his wife, Success.
Authorities revealed that the arrest followed an earlier operation involving another suspect. This connection helped investigators track the couple’s movement.
“The arrest of the couple followed the apprehension of a fake security agent, Sunday Samuel, 35, at the same checkpoint on Monday 30th March, while conveying 24.5kg skunk from Seme border to Lagos,” the statement reads.
However, the operation did not stop there. The NDLEA drug bust also uncovered an international drug trafficking network.
At the Lagos airport, officers intercepted cocaine hidden in palm kernel extract tins bound for the United Kingdom. Two suspects linked to the shipment were arrested immediately.
Furthermore, a follow-up operation led to more arrests, including the alleged mastermind of the syndicate.
“At his warehouse at 11, Ola Ifa Street, Bucknor, Isolo where NDLEA operatives recovered 886 tins of palm kernel extract prepared for drug concealment; industrial tools including a sealing machine, tin openers; paint sprays; 52 grams of cannabis sativa and a pack of hand gloves,” he said.
“Arinze has since confessed to personally draining the oil from the tins to conceal the cocaine.”
Meanwhile, similar operations were carried out in other states. In Borno, a suspect was arrested with drugs believed to be supplied to armed groups.
In Adamawa, a large quantity of tramadol pills was intercepted during a routine patrol. Additionally, arrests were made in Osun, Ondo, Edo, and Oyo states.
Moreover, authorities revealed disturbing cases, including one involving a suspect who allegedly used a child to distribute drugs.
Therefore, the recent arrests highlight the agency’s intensified efforts to combat drug trafficking nationwide. Officials say intelligence and surveillance have been improved significantly.
In conclusion, the latest crackdown shows that no sector is untouched in the fight against drugs.
