NDLEA arrests alleged cocaine syndicate leader at Lagos airport
Three to four sentences:
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency has dismantled an international cocaine trafficking cartel allegedly using Nigeria as a transit hub. The agency arrested Afolabi Kazeem Michael (also known as “KC Luxury”), described as the Nigerian leader of the syndicate, while he attempted to flee the country. NDLEA Chairman Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (retd.) highlighted the operation as one of the most significant narcotics investigations in recent times, resulting in the largest cocaine seizure made through a courier company in Nigeria. The operation also led to the arrest of other key suspects and the recovery of cash, jewellery, and luxury vehicles.
What happened
- Afolabi Kazeem Michael was arrested at the boarding gate of Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, on August 13, 2026, as he tried to board a flight to Paris.
- The NDLEA seized 184.50kg of cocaine, marking the largest cocaine haul through a courier company in Nigeria.
- The operation uncovered a network of companies and individuals processing and routing drugs to the UK, Europe, and Asia.
- Cash in euros, pounds, and naira, along with luxury items and vehicles, were recovered from Afolabi’s residence.
- The NDLEA linked the cartel to other international drug networks and warned traffickers that no sanctuary exists for them in Nigeria.
