BY Ngbede Silas
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency has recorded a major breakthrough after intercepting cocaine hidden inside food flasks meant for export to the United Kingdom.
The agency also announced fresh seizures of cannabis, tramadol and other illegal substances during operations carried out in several states.
According to officials, officers at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos uncovered multiple parcels of cocaine cleverly concealed in modified food containers prepared for shipment abroad.
The seized cocaine weighed several kilograms, while suspects linked to the attempted export were arrested for further investigation.
NDLEA said follow-up intelligence operations later led to the arrest of another suspect believed to be connected to the shipment.
In a separate airport operation, officers also intercepted a consignment of a strong cannabis strain popularly known as Loud.
The illegal substance was reportedly hidden inside snack packages that arrived from the United States.
Investigators said clearing agents were first detained before security teams tracked down the final recipient in Lagos.
Outside the airport, the agency expanded operations across the country.
In Kaduna State, operatives stopped a trailer transporting cement and discovered a large quantity of cannabis hidden inside the vehicle.
The truck driver was taken into custody as investigators began tracing the supply network.
In Cross River State, anti-drug officers supported by security personnel raided a forest location used for illegal cultivation.
During the operation, large cannabis farms were destroyed, while additional stored quantities were recovered.
A female suspect was arrested at the scene.
Another raid in Edo State led to the destruction of more cannabis plantations and the arrest of several suspects found with processed substances and seeds.
NDLEA also confirmed arrests in Delta State, where suspects were caught with bags of cannabis and planting materials.
In Lagos, officers intercepted a truck reportedly heading to Ghana with thousands of tramadol capsules and other controlled drugs.
The agency also raided a building on Lagos Island, where more illegal substances were recovered.
NDLEA said the latest operations reflect its commitment to reducing drug trafficking, disrupting criminal supply chains and preventing narcotics from reaching local and international markets.
Beyond enforcement, the agency stated that it continued public awareness campaigns in schools, religious centres and communities under its anti-drug education programme.
NDLEA Chairman, Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (retd.), praised officers involved in the successful operations and urged commands nationwide to sustain the momentum.
The latest seizures come amid growing concern over drug trafficking networks using creative concealment methods to move illegal substances through airports and road routes.
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