The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has announced a significant breakthrough in its ongoing efforts to curb drug trafficking in Nigeria.
Operatives of the Agency conducted a raid on the Lagos base of a notorious cocaine syndicate, uncovering large quantities of the illicit substance intended for both local distribution and export.
According to NDLEA spokesperson, Femi Babafemi, the syndicate, allegedly headed by a couple identified as Agbakoba John Mmadu and Agbakoba Ijeoma Chinwe, along with their associate Okoye Ifeoma Maryjane, has been a target of extensive intelligence gathering and surveillance.
The operation, carried out by a specialized unit, culminated in the arrest of the suspects on Wednesday, 3rd July 2024.
“During the raid,” Babafemi stated, “a total of 7.652 kilograms of cocaine was seized from Agbakoba John Mmadu at Ago Palace Way, Okota. Additionally, at Plot 2205 Eugene Ndubisi Close, Lilly Estate, Amuwo Odofin area of Lagos, Agbakoba Ijeoma Chinwe and Okoye Ifeoma Maryjane were apprehended with 122 compressed pellets of cocaine, weighing 2.42 kilograms.”
The combined seizure amounted to 10.1 kilograms of cocaine with an estimated street value exceeding N2.1 billion.
The NDLEA emphasised that the syndicate is notorious for its involvement in the packaging, distribution, and trafficking of cocaine within Nigeria and abroad. The suspects are currently in custody as investigations continue into their alleged criminal activities.
