The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has arrested two individuals who attempted to smuggle cocaine to Saudi Arabia by disguising themselves as Hajj pilgrims. This alarming development was disclosed by the NDLEA Chairman, Buba Marwa, who revealed that criminals are increasingly exploiting the religious pilgrimage to traffic illicit drugs across borders.
Speaking on the arrests, Chairman Marwa expressed grave concern over how drug traffickers manipulate sacred religious journeys for their illegal activities. “The exploitation of Hajj pilgrimages by drug traffickers is a serious affront to the sanctity of the sacred rites and endangers the lives of many innocent pilgrims,” he warned. He urged airport security agencies, immigration officials, and religious tour operators to heighten their vigilance and collaborate more effectively to prevent such criminal acts.
Despite the agency’s ongoing funding challenges, the NDLEA has recorded significant achievements in its fight against narcotics. Between 2023 and 2024, the agency arrested over 31,000 drug offenders and confiscated large quantities of various narcotics, including cocaine, heroin, cannabis, and methamphetamine. These successes underscore the commitment of the NDLEA to dismantle drug trafficking networks within Nigeria and beyond.
Chairman Marwa also highlighted the critical role of legislative support in enhancing the agency’s capacity. He noted that a newly amended NDLEA Act, which is currently awaiting presidential assent, will provide the agency with stronger legal powers, improve its operational framework, and enable more robust prosecution of drug traffickers. “Once signed into law, the amended Act will be a game-changer in our ongoing battle against drug trafficking and abuse,” Marwa stated.
The NDLEA continues to call on the general public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities related to drug trafficking. The agency also encourages Nigerians to support government efforts aimed at securing borders and promoting a drug-free society.