The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has uncovered and dismantled a suspected drug trafficking syndicate accused of secretly planting illicit drugs in the luggage of unsuspecting travellers at motor parks.
According to the agency, the operation began after officers intercepted a commercial vehicle travelling from Nnewi, Anambra State, to Abuja, where 467.7 grammes of methamphetamine concealed inside a passenger’s bag was recovered.
Investigations led to the arrest of the intended receiver of the package, who denied ownership, prompting further inquiries. The NDLEA said subsequent investigations resulted in the arrest of a loader who allegedly confessed to placing the drugs in the passenger’s luggage on the instruction of the bus driver. The driver and another suspect identified as the alleged owner of the drugs were later arrested.
The agency said the suspects are in custody while investigations continue to determine the full extent of the network and any possible links to wider drug trafficking operations.
The NDLEA also advised travellers to keep their luggage under close watch, avoid accepting items from strangers, and promptly report suspicious activities at motor parks to security agencies.
