Two Nigerian brothers have been apprehended by operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) at Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos for attempting to smuggle cocaine out of the country. The suspects were intercepted as they prepared to board a flight bound for India, with authorities confirming the illicit drugs were concealed in their luggage.
The arrests were confirmed in a statement released by the NDLEA, which detailed that the suspects were caught during routine screening of passengers and baggage. The agency stated that the drugs were discovered through the use of advanced detection equipment and intelligence efforts at the airport’s departure terminal.
According to officials, the suspects, who are biological brothers, were in possession of a significant quantity of cocaine, which they intended to transport to India—a known transit and consumer hub for various narcotics. While the precise quantity of the seized drugs was not immediately disclosed in the agency’s preliminary report, the NDLEA described the haul as substantial and classified the case as a major trafficking attempt.
The operation was carried out as part of the NDLEA’s ongoing crackdown on international drug trafficking networks. The agency has intensified surveillance and interdiction operations at Nigerian airports in response to rising incidents of drug smuggling, particularly involving travelers to Asia and Europe.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the suspects may be part of a broader trafficking syndicate. NDLEA officials said the brothers were already under observation due to suspicious travel patterns and intelligence reports linking them to previous attempts to export narcotics. Further investigations are currently underway to determine the full scope of their activities and to identify other possible accomplices both within and outside Nigeria.
The NDLEA also disclosed that the arrested individuals are cooperating with investigators, and additional arrests could follow as part of the probe. The agency reiterated its commitment to dismantling drug trafficking networks and preventing Nigeria from being used as a conduit for the illegal drug trade.
India, their intended destination, is among several countries known for strict anti-drug laws. Convictions for trafficking in India carry severe penalties, including long-term imprisonment and, in some cases, the death penalty. NDLEA officials noted that if the brothers had succeeded in entering India with the cocaine, they would likely have faced serious legal consequences under Indian law.
This latest arrest comes amid a broader effort by Nigerian authorities to combat drug-related offenses. In recent months, the NDLEA has reported numerous interceptions of illicit drugs at airports, seaports, and land borders. The agency continues to work closely with international partners to track trafficking routes and improve interdiction strategies.
Chairman of the NDLEA, Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (Retd), has consistently emphasized a zero-tolerance approach to drug trafficking. Under his leadership, the agency has ramped up enforcement efforts and public awareness campaigns, urging citizens to avoid drug-related crimes and support national efforts to curtail the menace.
Public reaction to the latest arrest has been mixed, with some expressing frustration over Nigeria’s continued involvement in international drug crimes. Others have commended the NDLEA for its vigilance and renewed commitment to law enforcement at key points of exit from the country.
As investigations continue, the two brothers remain in NDLEA custody. Formal charges are expected to be filed against them in the coming days. The agency has assured the public that justice will be pursued in accordance with Nigerian law, and all parties involved in the attempted trafficking will be held accountable.
