Nigeria’s fearless anti-drug agency, the NDLEA, has just pulled off a series of incredible seizures, dismantling a sophisticated drug trafficking operation. In a massive crackdown, they’ve intercepted tonnes of illicit substances cleverly hidden in everyday items like coffee sachets and books. This bold move has led to the arrest of 22 Indian sailors and a notorious female drug lord, sending shockwaves through the criminal underworld. Get ready for the details of this epic bust!
Key Highlights of the Operation:
- Major drug hauls discovered in coffee and book parcels.
- 22 Indian crew members arrested in connection with a cocaine shipment.
- A 65-year-old female drug kingpin, known as “Mama Kerosine,” apprehended.
- Significant quantities of cannabis, ketamine, ecstasy, and tramadol seized.
- Operations spanned across multiple states including Lagos, Oyo, Borno, Kwara, and Jigawa.
- NDLEA continues its aggressive War Against Drug Abuse (WADA).
Coffee Cups and Book Pages: A Smuggler’s Deceptive Arsenal
In a stunning display of their investigative prowess, the NDLEA has once again proven that no hiding place is too clever for them. Recent operations have uncovered large quantities of dangerous drugs ingeniously concealed within seemingly innocent packages. Imagine finding not just your morning brew, but also potent substances like ketamine, ecstasy, and tramadol pills hidden right inside your coffee mix sachets! These packages were apparently destined for countries like Zambia and the United Kingdom, showing the transnational reach of these criminal networks.
But the deception didn’t stop there. These cunning traffickers also used book parcels as a front for their illicit trade. This tactic, while creative, couldn’t fool the vigilant eyes of the NDLEA. The agency successfully intercepted these shipments, preventing a significant amount of harmful drugs from reaching our communities.
A Major Blow to International Drug Trafficking Rings
The most significant bust came with the apprehension of 22 Indian crew members. Following a tip-off, NDLEA officers swooped in on the merchant vessel MV Aruna Hulya at Apapa Port in Lagos. The operation led to the discovery of a staggering 31.5 kilograms of cocaine stashed away in the ship’s cargo hold. The vessel had reportedly sailed from the Marshall Islands, highlighting the international nature of this drug smuggling syndicate.
Among those detained is the ship’s captain, Sharma Shashi Bhushan, alongside other crew members. This arrest is a massive win for Nigeria and a serious setback for those involved in moving illegal narcotics across borders. These individuals have been handed over to the State Criminal Investigation Department in Lagos for further questioning and legal proceedings.
“Mama Kerosine” Finally Caught!
In a separate, but equally crucial operation in Ibadan, Oyo State, the NDLEA zeroed in on a notorious female drug kingpin. Known affectionately (and fearfully) as “Mama Kerosine,” this 65-year-old matriarch has been a significant player in the drug trade for years. She was apprehended along with her associate, 35-year-old Olusanya Abosede.
The raid followed the seizure of a massive 238.4 kilograms of ‘skunk,’ a particularly potent strain of cannabis, which is believed to be linked to Ilori’s operations. The arrests were made in the Onireke/Elekuro area of Ibadan, a key hub for their illegal activities.
Disrupting Supply Chains to Insurgents and Beyond
The NDLEA’s efforts aren’t just limited to intercepting international shipments. They are also actively working to disrupt the flow of drugs that fuel criminal activities, including insurgency. In Borno State, the agency successfully arrested two individuals, Isa Mohammed (26) and Musa Samaila (30), who were found with large quantities of Tramadol. This drug is often misused by insurgents, and cutting off this supply is vital for national security.
Further operations yielded impressive results across the country:
| Location | Substance | Quantity | Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lagos | Skunk | 400 kg | New Year’s Day |
| Jigawa State | Compressed Skunk | 140.8 kg | December 30, 2025 |
| Kwara State | Skunk | 238.5 kg | December 31, 2025 |
| Kwara State | Tramadol & Diazepam pills | 32,000 pills | December 31, 2025 |
NDLEA Chairman Commends Officers, Pledges Continued Fight
Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (rtd), the Chairman and CEO of NDLEA, has lauded the incredible efforts of his officers across the various states. He emphasized that these successes are a testament to their dedication and vigilance. General Marwa urged them to maintain the momentum in the ongoing War Against Drug Abuse (WADA).
“Our officers must continue to disrupt both domestic and transnational drug networks while sensitising communities on the dangers of drug abuse,” he stated. This sentiment underscores the agency’s dual approach: enforcement and education. They’re not just catching drug dealers; they’re also working to prevent addiction and abuse by raising awareness in schools, workplaces, and community centers.
The NDLEA’s commitment to a drug-free Nigeria is unwavering. These recent busts are a clear signal that the agency is more determined than ever to protect its citizens from the devastating impact of illicit substances. It’s a tough fight, but with operations like these, Nigeria is certainly winning.
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