Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency have arrested a Brazil-based businessman, Abugu Ikechukwu, for allegedly attempting to smuggle liquid cocaine concealed in clothing through the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja, Lagos.
The 41-year-old suspect was apprehended shortly after arriving in Nigeria from São Paulo, Brazil, via Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on an Ethiopian Airlines flight.
According to the NDLEA, a detailed search of his luggage uncovered 14 shirts and towels that had been soaked in liquid cocaine, dried and carefully ironed in an attempt to evade detection by security operatives.
The agency said laboratory analysis confirmed that the concealed substance weighed 6.10 kilograms, leading to the suspect’s arrest and further investigation.
NDLEA spokesperson, Femi Babafemi, disclosed in a statement on Sunday that the operation was part of ongoing efforts to curb the trafficking of illicit drugs through the country’s airports and other entry points.
During preliminary interrogation, the suspect reportedly told investigators that he had lived in Brazil for more than 14 years, where he operates an African restaurant business.
He allegedly claimed that he travelled to Nigeria to visit his wife and purchase food items in bulk for shipment to Brazil for use in his restaurant.
The anti-narcotics agency said the arrest highlighted the evolving tactics employed by drug traffickers, who now conceal prohibited substances in everyday items to beat security checks.
The agency reiterated its commitment to strengthening surveillance and intelligence-driven operations aimed at intercepting illicit drugs and dismantling trafficking networks operating within and outside the country.
NDLEA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (retd.), commended officers involved in the operation and urged personnel across commands to sustain the momentum in the fight against drug trafficking and abuse.