Nigerian Drug Lord Apprehended After N567 Million Worth of Drugs Intercepted Bound for the UK

Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have made a significant breakthrough in their relentless efforts to curb drug trafficking activities.

In a recent operation, they successfully apprehended a suspected drug baron, Charles Chinedu Ezeh, after seizing a staggering N567 million worth of drugs bound for the United Kingdom.

News About Nigeria understands that the clandestine operation unfolded at the SAHCO export shed of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, MMIA, in Ikeja, Lagos. The vigilant NDLEA operatives intercepted a large consignment of methamphetamine that had been cleverly concealed within powdered custard containers. The drugs were concealed as part of a consolidated cargo en route to London.

The illicit drug consignment, weighing approximately 30.10 kilograms, carried a street value of an astounding N567 million. The discovery and subsequent seizure of this significant quantity of drugs dealt a major blow to the drug trafficking network responsible for the operation.

NDLEA’s spokesperson, Femi Babafemi, issued a statement on Sunday, shedding light on the operation. According to Babafemi, the agency detected and seized the illicit drugs at the airport on Tuesday, 16th May. This successful interception set in motion a series of follow-up operations to bring all those involved to justice.

The diligent efforts of the NDLEA led to the subsequent arrest of a freight agent named Nwobodo Chidiebere. The investigation further unraveled the involvement of a female suspect identified as Chioma Lucy Akuta. However, the arrest that dealt the most significant blow to the drug trafficking syndicate was that of Charles Chinedu Ezeh. The agency apprehended him at Sotel Suites, located in Amuwo Odofin, Lagos, on Thursday, 18th May.

Ezeh, in an attempt to shield his illicit activities, claimed to be a legitimate businessman operating in Onitsha, Anambra State. However, investigations revealed that he had resided in London with his wife and children until 10th December 2022. It was at that point that he fled to Nigeria following his involvement in a drug-related offense in the UK.

While Ezeh had been evading capture by allegedly residing in various hotels since returning to Nigeria, the resourceful NDLEA operatives were able to uncover his true whereabouts. They located his opulent mansion situated at No. 1 Hawawu Abikan Street, Lekki, on Friday, 19th May. During a thorough search of the premises, the operatives recovered a trove of crucial evidence, including travel documents, property records, and other pertinent items.

The apprehension of Charles Chinedu Ezeh and the seizure of the substantial drug consignment demonstrate the unwavering commitment of the NDLEA in combatting drug trafficking. Their dedication and resourcefulness in disrupting the operations of drug lords sends a strong message that such criminal activities will not go unpunished.

As the investigation continues, it is expected that further revelations will shed light on the intricate network behind this operation. The NDLEA, bolstered by this success, remains resolute in their mission to rid Nigeria of the drug menace and protect the international community from the devastating consequences of illicit drug trade.