Nigeria’s anti-drug agency says it has intercepted cocaine concealed in dried fish and seized multiple illicit drug consignments bound for the UK, in a series of coordinated operations across the country.

Cocaine hidden in dried fish uncovered

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) said its operatives uncovered 5.8kg of cocaine hidden inside the heads of imported dry stock fish, locally known as “okporoko”.

The seizure followed a targeted operation by the agency’s Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) command in Lagos.

A 36-year-old suspect, Akputa Dickson Ejike, described by officials as a key member of an international drug syndicate, was arrested.

 “The cocaine was concealed in dry fish heads and was meant for export to Delhi, India,” the NDLEA said.

Authorities say the operation was based on intelligence about a cross-border trafficking network supplying drugs to international markets.

UK-bound shipments intercepted

In a separate operation, NDLEA officers intercepted two consignments destined for the United Kingdom at a courier company.

One shipment, which originated from Cotonou in Benin Republic, contained 1.9kg of methamphetamine hidden in automobile filters.

Another package contained 40 ampoules of morphine sulphate and nine ampoules of fentanyl—both powerful opioids linked to global drug abuse concerns.

Syndicate bust in Lagos

Operatives also raided a suspected drug distribution hub in Yaba, Lagos, arresting a 46-year-old woman, Omolade Abigail Jolayemi, and her associate.

Officials said 135 blocks of “Ghana Loud”, a potent strain of cannabis weighing 76.3kg, were recovered.

The suspect, also known as “Iya Ghana”, was described as a trader who allegedly ran a cross-border drug network between Nigeria and Ghana.

Another suspect, Anayo Lucky Ohabiro, was arrested in Surulere with 41kg of the same substance.

Arrests across states

The NDLEA reported additional arrests and seizures across several states:

In Ekiti, an 80-year-old man was arrested with methamphetamine and cannabis.

In Ondo, nearly 895kg of cannabis was recovered during a raid.

In Edo, a warehouse containing 576.5kg of cannabis and codeine syrup was uncovered.

In Benue, over 116kg of cannabis was seized.

In Taraba, a truck carrying 135kg of cannabis concealed in animal feed was intercepted.

Why it matters

The seizures highlight the scale and sophistication of drug trafficking networks operating in and through Nigeria.

They also point to the country’s role as both a transit and destination hub in the global narcotics trade, particularly for shipments bound for Europe and Asia.

Public health experts warn that substances like fentanyl and methamphetamine pose significant risks due to their high potency and addiction potential.

NDLEA response

The Chairman of the NDLEA, Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (retd), commended officers involved in the operations.

“We must maintain a balance between reducing drug supply and addressing drug demand through prevention and education,” he said.

The agency added that its War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) campaign continues nationwide, with sensitisation programmes held in schools across several states.

Industry and public perspective

Security analysts say the latest operations reflect improved intelligence-sharing and coordination among enforcement units.

However, they warn that sustained investment in border control, surveillance, and public awareness will be critical to long-term success.

What’s next

The NDLEA says investigations are ongoing to dismantle the wider networks behind the intercepted consignments.

Authorities are also expected to strengthen monitoring of export channels and courier services used for trafficking.

The Delta State Police Command says it has arrested more than 270 suspects in a series of coordinated raids targeting criminal hideouts and drug hotspots in Warri, Uvwie, Jeddo, and Ughelli.

The operations, carried out on 25 and 26 March, are part of what police describe as an ongoing effort to dismantle criminal networks and curb illicit drug activities in the state.

Targeted raids across Warri and environs

Police said the first operation took place on 25 March, led by the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations, DCP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, alongside tactical teams.

The raids focused on identified black spots in Warri South, Uvwie, and Okpe local government areas, including Ugbrumu and Jeddo communities.

A total of 59 suspects — 51 men and eight women — were arrested.

Authorities said some of those detained were linked to suspected cult activities, while others were found in locations described as criminal hideouts.

“Most of the hotels affected operate as brothels… creating a safe haven for criminal elements.”

Police also reported recovering substances suspected to include codeine, crack cocaine, “loud”, “colos”, and Indian hemp.

Ughelli raids yield over 200 more arrests

A second operation on 26 March targeted Ughelli town, focusing on locations known for drug-related activities.

These included Epini Hotel, Torsac Hotel, and Primaria Guest House along the Ughelli–Patani Expressway.

Police said 213 additional suspects were arrested during the raids.

Large quantities of substances suspected to be Canadian loud, CSC syrup, tramadol, swinol, and Indian hemp were recovered.

Officials added that some of the premises raided were allegedly being used as brothels and shelters for criminal groups.

What happens next

Police confirmed that all suspects and recovered items have been handed over to relevant units for investigation and possible prosecution.

They include officers at ‘A’ Division in Ughelli, the Rapid Response Squad, and the CP Special Assignment Team.

In a statement, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Edafe Bright, said:

“All suspects found culpable will be prosecuted in accordance with the law.”

Why it matters

The raids highlight growing concerns about the use of hotels and informal establishments as hubs for drug distribution and organised crime.

Security analysts say such operations could disrupt local criminal networks but stress that sustained intelligence-led policing and community cooperation are key to long-term impact.

For residents, the crackdown signals increased police presence in areas previously considered unsafe.

Public reaction and security concerns

Some community members have welcomed the arrests, saying they could help reduce crime and drug abuse.

However, others have raised concerns about the need to ensure due process and avoid wrongful arrests during large-scale operations.

Experts also warn that without rehabilitation programmes and economic opportunities, many suspects could return to crime.

What’s next

Police say similar operations will continue across Delta State, including Sapele and surrounding areas.

Authorities are also urging residents to provide timely and credible information to support crime prevention efforts.

The Lagos State Police Command has arrested three suspected members of a criminal syndicate accused of disguising as security operatives to gain access into residential estates and vandalise high-end vehicles across Lagos.

The Commissioner of Police, Olohundare Jimoh, announced the arrests during a press briefing on Wednesday, describing the suspects as part of a “notorious and vicious gang” operating within the Lagos metropolis.

Police said the suspects identified as Obinna Okeke (27), Emmanuel Anyanwu (38), and Joshua Nkemdirim (31) were apprehended around 4:00 a.m. in the Lekki area following a coordinated operation by detectives.

How the syndicate operated

According to the police, the gang used deception and intimidation to bypass estate security systems.

They allegedly disguised themselves in fake security uniforms and used a modified Mercedes-Benz car jack shaped like a firearm to create fear and gain access.

“They present the object like a rifle. At that point, victims believe it is a real weapon and comply,” the commissioner said.

Once inside estates, the suspects reportedly targeted vehicles particularly Toyota, Lexus, and Mercedes-Benz models removing valuable components.

Police said the gang specialised in dismantling critical parts such as brain boxes, wiring systems, air-conditioning control units, mirrors, and other high-value components.

“Some of these parts are extremely expensive. Replacing them can cost between three to five million naira depending on the vehicle,” Jimoh said.

Arrest, confession and recovered items

The police confirmed that the suspects confessed during interrogation and have been assisting with ongoing investigations.

Recovered items include vehicle components, tools used for vandalism, whistles for communication, and fake number plates allegedly used to evade detection.

Authorities said the suspects also led detectives to crime scenes, where victims identified them.

“The suspects admitted they specialise in vandalising vehicles parked within estates,” the police said.

Wider crackdown and ongoing investigation

Police say efforts are underway to track down other members of the syndicate, including those who buy stolen vehicle parts.

Jimoh warned that individuals who purchase stolen components are equally culpable.

“If there is no market for stolen items, the crime will reduce. Receivers of these items are as guilty as those who steal them,” he said.

The command also hinted at a possible clampdown on markets suspected of dealing in stolen automobile parts.

Why it matters

Vehicle vandalism has become a growing concern in Lagos, especially in gated estates previously considered secure.

The police say the syndicate exploited trust in security systems, raising fresh concerns about identity verification and estate safety protocols.

Residents are now being urged to adopt stricter verification processes before granting access to anyone claiming to be security personnel.

Police advisory to residents

The police advised estate managers and residents to verify all security operatives through Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) before granting entry.

“Where there is any doubt, such persons should immediately be referred to the nearest police division,” Jimoh said.

Residents are also encouraged to report suspicious activities or request verification through the Lagos State Police Command emergency lines:

07061019374

08065154338

08063299264

08039344870

“Together, through vigilance, cooperation, and timely reporting, the safety and security of all communities in Lagos State will be strengthened,” the commissioner added.

What’s next

The suspects are expected to be charged in court, with police indicating that the use of a fake firearm could attract armed robbery charges under Nigerian law.

Investigations continue as authorities seek to dismantle the wider network behind the operation.