Nigerian drug enforcement officials scored a major victory against international drug trafficking on Christmas Eve as a predawn operation at Eleko Beach, Lagos, resulted in the seizure of nearly two tons of high-grade cannabis and the arrest of six foreign nationals. The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency’s (NDLEA) Marine Command executed the precision raid at approximately 2:30 am on December 24, 2024, intercepting two vessels loaded with 1,960 kilograms of “Ghanaian Loud,” a particularly potent cannabis strain.
NDLEA spokesperson Femi Babafemi confirmed the arrests of two Ghanaian nationals identified as Godsway John, 38, and Freedom Kelvin, 33, alongside four Beninese citizens: Chegoun Hounsou, 23, Gadabor Nyameto, 47, Adantg Sasa, 34, and Ayao Kayivi, 21. The strategic operation at the Lekki-based beach highlights the ongoing challenges of maritime drug trafficking along Nigeria’s extensive coastline.
The successful interception reveals the sophisticated nature of cross-border drug trafficking operations in West Africa, with smugglers attempting to exploit Nigeria’s lengthy coastline for their illegal activities. The timing of the operation, conducted during the early hours of Christmas Eve, suggests the traffickers may have been attempting to take advantage of reduced security presence during the holiday period.
“Ghanaian Loud,” the seized cannabis variant, has gained notoriety in drug trafficking circles for its high potency and street value. The substantial quantity seized – nearly two metric tons – represents a significant blow to international drug trafficking networks operating in the region and underscores the scale of the illegal drug trade challenge facing Nigerian authorities.
The NDLEA’s Marine Command’s successful operation demonstrates the agency’s growing capabilities in maritime drug interdiction. The precision timing and execution of the raid indicate enhanced intelligence gathering and operational planning capabilities within Nigeria’s drug enforcement infrastructure.
This latest seizure adds to the NDLEA’s string of recent successes in combating drug trafficking, particularly along Nigeria’s coastal regions. The involvement of foreign nationals in the operation highlights the international nature of drug trafficking networks and the importance of regional cooperation in addressing the challenge.
The choice of Eleko Beach as a landing point suggests traffickers are constantly seeking new routes and methods to move their illegal cargo. The location’s proximity to Lagos, Africa’s largest city, makes it an attractive target for drug smugglers seeking to access large urban markets.
The arrest of nationals from Ghana and Benin Republic emphasizes the transnational nature of drug trafficking operations in West Africa. This international dimension underscores the need for enhanced regional cooperation and coordination among law enforcement agencies across West African nations to effectively combat drug trafficking.
The NDLEA’s successful operation sends a strong message to drug trafficking networks about Nigeria’s commitment to disrupting their activities, regardless of timing or location. The agency’s ability to execute such complex operations during holiday periods demonstrates its operational readiness and dedication to maintaining constant vigilance against drug trafficking.
As investigations continue, the arrested suspects face severe penalties under Nigerian law for drug trafficking. Their arrest and the seizure of such a substantial quantity of drugs provide valuable intelligence opportunities for understanding and disrupting international drug trafficking networks operating in the region.
The successful operation also highlights the ongoing need for continued investment in maritime security and drug interdiction capabilities along Nigeria’s extensive coastline. The ability to intercept large drug shipments at sea represents a crucial component of the country’s broader drug control strategy.
This Christmas Eve bust serves as a reminder of the continuous nature of the fight against drug trafficking and the dedication of law enforcement personnel who maintain their vigilance even during holiday periods. The operation’s success reinforces the NDLEA’s position as a key player in regional drug control efforts and demonstrates Nigeria’s commitment to combating international drug trafficking networks.
