By: Erewunmi Peace

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has arrested a Brazil-based Nigerian businessman at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos, for allegedly attempting to smuggle cocaine into the country.

According to a statement issued by the agency, the suspect was intercepted during inward passenger clearance on a flight arriving from Brazil via Johannesburg. NDLEA operatives reportedly acted on credible intelligence before conducting a thorough screening.

A body scan raised suspicion of concealed illicit substances, prompting a detailed search that led to the discovery of wraps of cocaine hidden in his shoes and attached to parts of his body. The total weight of the recovered drugs was said to be approximately 1.6 kilograms.

The agency’s spokesperson stated that the suspect allegedly confessed to purchasing the drugs abroad with the intention of reselling them in Nigeria.

The NDLEA reaffirmed its commitment to intensifying surveillance at airports, borders, and other entry points to curb drug trafficking and related crimes.

The agency also warned individuals involved in illicit drug activities to desist, noting that enhanced intelligence operations and modern detection technologies are making it increasingly difficult for traffickers to evade arrest.

The suspect is expected to face prosecution in accordance with Nigeria’s drug control laws.