NDLEA arrests elderly man for cocaine smuggling at Abuja airport
A 74-year-old man, Ikwuakalom Emeka, was arrested by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja. He allegedly attempted to smuggle 11 kilograms of cocaine hidden in food items while heading to the United Kingdom. The NDLEA also carried out several other arrests and drug seizures in Lagos and other parts of the country. Buba Marwa, the agency's chairman, praised the officers for their recent efforts.
What we know
- Ikwuakalom Emeka was apprehended at the departure hall while trying to board British Airways flight BA082 to Heathrow on Saturday, March 14, 2026.
- NDLEA found blocks of cocaine wrapped in foil and balloons, concealed in food items, including ground dry pepper.
- In Lagos, Maryam Olalowo was arrested at Ikad Hotel and Suites on Monday, March 9, with cocaine and cannabis, along with her three children.
- Her husband, Ibrahim Olalowo Olatunji, was also arrested the same day and confessed ownership of the drugs.
- NDLEA also seized large quantities of tramadol, pentazocine, skunk, and codeine-based syrup in other operations across the country.
