Authorities from the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have apprehended Adewunmi Adebola Dorcas, an Ibadan-based businesswoman, and Arinze Ora, an auto parts dealer, for attempting to smuggle opioids and cocaine to London and Congo Brazzaville, respectively.
On September 6, 2024, NDLEA officers at Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos intercepted a cargo destined for the UK. A detailed inspection uncovered 924 bottles of codeine syrup weighing 135.70 kg and 5,250 rohypnol tablets hidden among food items. Freight agent Owojori Olanrewaju Sunday, who presented the shipment, was arrested.
Further investigations revealed that Adewunmi Akeem Temitope, the suspect's son, was involved; he claimed that his mother had sent the cargo from Ibadan. On September 7, authorities arrested Mrs. Adewunmi, who is involved in food and cargo exports.
Owojori admitted to working for Mrs. Adewumi, stating he was paid N2,411,000 for this shipment and N2.1 million for a previous one.
In another case, on September 11, NDLEA officers intercepted cartons of auto spare parts and custard powder destined for Congo Brazzaville. A thorough search revealed 300 grams of cocaine concealed within the custard containers. Arinze Ora, the sender and auto parts dealer from Lagos, was subsequently arrested.