NDLEA Arrests Drug Suspects, Seizes Cocaine Nationwide

Operatives of Nigeria's National Drug Law Enforcement Agency arrested a 74-year-old man at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja on Saturday, March 14, 2026, after discovering 11 kilograms of cocaine concealed in his luggage as he attempted to board a flight to London. The suspect, identified as Ikwuakalom Nwakoro Emeka, was detained at the departure hall while preparing to take British Airways flight BA082 to Heathrow Airport. He told authorities he was traveling for a vacation in the United Kingdom.

A search of Emeka's bags revealed blocks of the substance wrapped in foil papers and balloons and hidden inside food items, including ground dry pepper, according to Femi Babafemi, the agency's director of media and advocacy. The arrest highlighted ongoing efforts to intercept drug smuggling at major entry and exit points.

The operation was part of a broader crackdown by the NDLEA over the past week, which resulted in multiple arrests and seizures across the country. In Lagos, agents acting on intelligence arrested Maryam Olalowo at Ikad Hotel and Suites on Etim Inyang Street in Victoria Island on March 9. The woman, who was with her three children including an infant, was...