The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) on Friday said it had arrested a suspected notorious drug baron, Azubuike Odugwe, over unlawful importation of 1.025kg of cocaine.
The Agency’s Spokesman, Mitchell Ofoyeju, said in a statement made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja that the arrest was made during inward screening of passengers on Emirates airline flight from Dubai.
It said that Odugwe was found with wraps of powdery substances that tested positive for cocaine at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos.
“Odugwe, who is currently on bail over several drug charges brought against him by the Agency, was found with wraps of cocaine at the MMIA, Lagos. The wraps of cocaine were packed in duty-free polythene inside his luggage. This mode of drug concealment in duty-free bags is similar to the last drug charge involving him,’’ the statement said.
The statement also said that the suspected drug kingpin told investigators during interrogation that he had made a big mistake.
It said that Odugwe had pleaded not guilty to previous charges where drugs were not found on him, alleging that his enemies were behind his trial.
Ahmadu Garba, an NDLEA commander, described the arrest as a sign of what to expect in the future and promised to make the airport difficult for drug traffickers.
“I am happy with this high profile arrest. It is a good way to start and sign of better days ahead. The suspect travelled to Dubai on Sept. 6 and was arrested on Sept. 10 on arrival at the Lagos airport,” Garba said.
Ahmadu Giade, Chairman/Chief Executive of the NDLEA, was also quoted as saying that the arrest of Odugwe was rewarding for the country’s fight against drugs.
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