Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have made significant arrests at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos, apprehending a South African woman and a Nigerian-American grandmother for drug trafficking.

On October 7, a 34-year-old South African, identified as Qhina Beauty, was detained at the airport while attempting to board a Qatar Airways flight to South Africa via Doha. A thorough search of her luggage revealed 36.65 kilograms of cocaine concealed within 30 blocks, which were laced with dried pepper and wrapped in cello tape. Qhina disclosed to NDLEA officials that she had arrived in Nigeria on September 30 for the sole purpose of collecting the illicit consignment. She further revealed that she was recruited by another South African woman who promised her R20,000 upon successful delivery of the drugs.

Qhina also mentioned that she was introduced to two accomplices: one based in the United States and another, a car dealer located in Lagos. Following her arrest, NDLEA investigations led to the apprehension of Uchenna Victor Umunnakwe, a 46-year-old car dealer, on October 14. He was intercepted at Apple Junction, Ago Palace Way, after being under surveillance for several days. Uchenna admitted to having received Qhina at the airport and lodging her at a hotel in Amuwo-Odofin before her flight.

In a separate operation, on October 21, the NDLEA arrested Anetor Gloria Ubong, a 62-year-old realtor from Richmond, Texas, who holds dual Nigerian and US citizenship. She was caught after arriving on a United Airlines flight from Houston. A search of her checked baggage uncovered 9.45 kilograms of high-grade cannabis, known as loud, concealed within 18 parcels wrapped in gift paper. Anetor explained that the parcels were delivered to her home in the US by her daughter and her daughter's future brother-in-law for delivery to her daughter's fiancé, Jibola, in Nigeria.

These arrests highlight the ongoing efforts of the NDLEA to combat drug trafficking and ensure the safety of the Nigerian populace from the dangers associated with illegal drugs. The agency continues to enhance its surveillance and interdiction operations at the nation’s airports to disrupt drug syndicates operating within and outside the country.