Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have arrested a 42-year-old Angolan businessman, Mbala Dajou Abuba, at Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport (MAKIA) in Kano. Abuba was attempting to board an Egypt Air flight to Istanbul, Turkey, via Cairo when security personnel detected illicit substances in his body through a scan. His suspicious behavior led to further checks, revealing that he had ingested drugs for trafficking.
Following his arrest, NDLEA officials placed Abuba under close observation, during which he excreted 120 wraps of cocaine, weighing approximately 1.829 kilograms. In his statement, he admitted to engaging in drug trafficking after struggling with his legitimate business, which involved township delivery services in Angola. Authorities suspect he may be part of a larger international drug network operating between Africa and Europe.
The NDLEA continues to strengthen its surveillance efforts at Nigeria’s airports to prevent drug smuggling. The agency has intensified its crackdown on traffickers, leading to several high-profile arrests in recent months. Officials warn that anyone attempting to use Nigeria as a transit point for drug trafficking will face the full force of the law.
The agency has urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities related to drug trafficking. They emphasize that combating illegal drug trade requires collaboration between security agencies, international partners, and the general public. The NDLEA remains committed to ensuring Nigeria does not serve as a hub for narcotics trafficking.