Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have arrested a 93-year-old man and a 69-year-old medical doctor as part of a series of intelligence-led operations targeting drug trafficking networks across Nigeria.
The agency disclosed that the nonagenarian, identified as Pa Friday Ahukanna Chigbu, was apprehended at his residence in Osisioma Local Government Area of Abia State, where 7.7 kilograms of skunk, a strain of cannabis, were recovered. The suspect reportedly admitted to engaging in the illicit drug trade for over a year.
In a related operation, NDLEA operatives arrested an Ivorian national, Gohouri Michael, at the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport with 1.49 kilograms of cocaine concealed in 82 wraps. Investigations led to the arrest of a 69-year-old medical doctor, Dr. Chudi Daniel Ofomata, in Ogun State, who was identified as a key figure coordinating the drug movement. Substances recovered from him included promazepam and promethazine injections.
The agency also recorded multiple seizures and arrests across several states. In Ogun State, three suspects were arrested with 34 kilograms of skunk, while in Imo State, a 26-year-old woman was caught with 56.2 kilograms of the same substance.
In Niger State, a couple was arrested after 118 kilograms of skunk were discovered in their home. Similarly, NDLEA operatives in Borno State intercepted a trailer conveying large quantities of illicit drugs, including Rohypnol tablets and codeine syrup.
In Lagos, operatives intercepted a commercial bus conveying 15 kilograms of cannabis and later seized 26,800 bottles of codeine-based syrup from a truck in the Mushin area, leading to multiple arrests.
A raid in the Federal Capital Territory also led to the arrest of eight suspects at a notorious drug spot, with over 11 kilograms of skunk recovered.
One of the largest seizures occurred in Edo State, where NDLEA operatives intercepted two trucks carrying a combined total of 7,245 kilograms of skunk concealed in cartons. Five suspects were arrested in connection with the consignment.
Meanwhile, the agency said its War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) sensitisation campaign continued nationwide, targeting schools, motor parks, and community groups.
Chairman of NDLEA, Brig.-Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (retd.), commended officers across various commands for their efforts, urging sustained balance between drug supply reduction and demand reduction initiatives.