The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has dismantled an international drug trafficking network operating between Nigeria and Turkey, arresting five suspects, including a former professional footballer. The arrests followed a coordinated operation targeting the syndicate’s activities in Lagos and other locations across Nigeria.
NDLEA spokesman, Femi Babafemi, disclosed the development in a statement released on Sunday, June 29, 2025. He revealed that the ex-footballer, whose identity has not yet been officially disclosed, was arrested alongside four other members of the syndicate following months of intelligence gathering and surveillance.
According to Babafemi, the operation led to the seizure of large quantities of illicit drugs, including cocaine and heroin, concealed in various shipments and intended for export to Turkey. The NDLEA said the syndicate used sophisticated smuggling methods and relied on a network of couriers and logistics operatives to move the drugs between Nigeria and Turkey.
He added that one of the suspects was arrested while attempting to board a flight to Istanbul from Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos. Further investigations led to the identification and apprehension of other members of the group at different locations across the state.
NDLEA officials also carried out simultaneous raids at residential and storage properties used by the syndicate. During the raids, operatives recovered various narcotics, communication devices, packaging materials, and documents believed to be linked to the transnational operation.
The agency stated that the ex-footballer is believed to have played a central role in coordinating the network’s logistics and international connections. Preliminary investigations suggest that he used his previous travel privileges and wide network of contacts to facilitate drug movements between Nigeria and Turkey.
Babafemi emphasized that the NDLEA remains committed to dismantling all forms of organized drug trafficking, particularly those with international ties. He noted that the arrest of the former athlete highlights the disturbing trend of professionals being recruited or willingly participating in criminal enterprises for financial gain.
The agency has confirmed that all suspects are currently in NDLEA custody and are cooperating with ongoing investigations. The authorities said charges will be filed once the investigation is concluded and forensic analysis of the seized drugs and digital evidence is completed.
NDLEA Chairman, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Retd), commended the agency’s officers for the successful operation, describing it as a significant blow to international drug networks attempting to use Nigeria as a transit or operational base. He reiterated that the NDLEA would not relent in its efforts to safeguard the country from the dangers of narcotics.
Marwa also warned that individuals involved in drug trafficking—regardless of status or profession—will be pursued and prosecuted. He urged Nigerians to resist the temptation of engaging in illicit drug trade and instead support national efforts to combat drug abuse and trafficking.
The agency said it is working closely with its Turkish counterparts and other international partners to further trace the network’s operations, identify additional suspects, and dismantle the broader infrastructure supporting the syndicate.
The bust comes amid increasing concerns about the rise in drug trafficking involving Nigeria and foreign destinations. In recent years, the NDLEA has intensified its crackdown on transnational cartels using Nigeria’s airports, seaports, and land borders to smuggle drugs.
The latest operation marks another major success in the agency’s campaign to root out drug trafficking networks and curb the growing influence of narcotics in and outside the country. Authorities say the investigation remains active, and further arrests may follow as more details emerge.
