Operatives seize 1,619,700 Euros at MMIA in Lagos
The NDLEA says it seized a total of 1,619,700 Euros, which the owners failed to declare at the Murtala Muhammad International Airport, MMIA, upon their entering into the country.
Of the figure, 740,000 euros, and another 69,850 euros were seized from two women. The NDLEA said it also found another 809,850 euros inside a consignment that also contained banned drugs from Pakistan.
The anti-narcotics agency said it was investigating the cash to know whether they are proceeds from drug business.
Femi Babafemi, NDLEA’s spokesperson stated this in a statement he issued on Sunday.
According to the statement, the 809,850 Euros seized was lumped with 649,300 capsules of Tramadol 225mg, with its origin being Pakistan, Austria and Italy.
It also said it intercepted various quantities of heroin and other illicit drugs that were for export to the United States, United Kingdom and Canada.
“At the Skyway Aviation Handling Company cargo warehouse at the airport, anti-narcotic officers seized 649,300 capsules of Tramadol 225mg weighing 460.95kg, which were imported from Pakistan via Addis Ababa. The seizure took place on the 16th of Feb.
The NDLEA said a suspect, Nwadu Ekene Christian was arrested in connection with the seizure.
“On the same day, a female passenger, Ms. Ayeki Happy arrived at the airport from Italy on a Turkish Airline flight and was arrested with 69,850 Euros cash concealed in her luggage.
“This was four days after another lady, Precious Idahagbon, was arrested with 740,000 Euros cash hidden in her luggage and undeclared upon her arrival at the airport from Vienna, Austria via Istanbul, Turkey.
“Both cash seizures are currently under investigation to establish if they are proceeds of drug business.
“At the NAHCO export shed of the airport, operatives seized a consignment of 131 parcels of Cannabis concealed in packages of black soap (Dudu-Osun), during outward clearance of cargo going to the UK.
“Not less than 6.5kg of Heroin, Khat and Oxycodone packaged for export to USA, and Canada were seized at a major courier company in Lagos by operatives of the Directorate of Operation and General Investigations, DOGI.
“The drugs were concealed in shoes, and carton walls.
