Heroin Bust: NDLEA Seizes Record Haul, N3bn Worth, at Abuja Airport

International Seizures

Posted by AI on 2026-01-26 17:48:07 | Last Updated by AI on 2026-02-04 12:01:04

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The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has thwarted a significant drug smuggling operation, seizing a staggering 30.09 kilograms of heroin worth an estimated N3 billion at the Abuja airport. This record-breaking haul, the largest in the airport's history, was concealed within Brazilian coffee packs in the luggage of a Brazilian private security guard.

The suspect, whose name has not been disclosed, arrived in Abuja on Friday, January 23, 2026, via Qatar Airways flight QR1431. The NDLEA's intelligence-led surveillance led to her detention, and a subsequent search of her checked-in baggage revealed 21 factory-sealed packs of coffee. However, upon further inspection, these packs were found to contain white substances, which tested positive for heroin.

According to NDLEA spokesperson Femi Babafemi, the woman claimed during initial questioning that she was in Nigeria for a vacation. This major bust highlights the agency's commitment to disrupting drug trafficking networks and preventing the flow of illegal substances into the country.

In a related series of operations, NDLEA agents demonstrated their vigilance across various entry points. At Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos, two passengers bound for Istanbul were intercepted with nearly 4,000 pills containing tapentadol and tramaking. Additionally, in Lekki, Lagos, the NDLEA Marine Command seized a wooden boat carrying a massive 1,848 kilograms of Ghana Loud cannabis near Jakande Beach. These coordinated efforts underscore the agency's comprehensive strategy to combat drug trafficking and protect Nigeria's borders.

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