NDLEA Foils Attempts To Smuggle Drugs Concealed In Prayer Beads, Clothing, And Board Games

Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have intercepted multiple attempts by drug trafficking organizations (DTOs) to smuggle illicit substances abroad through logistics firms and the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Ikeja, Lagos.

This was revealed in a signed statement by the agency’s Director, Media & Advocacy, Femi Babafemi on Sunday, March 16, 2025.

According to NDLEA, trafficker attempted to move drugs such as cocaine, tramadol, loud, molly, and cannabis, concealing them in prayer beads, board game packs, and female clothing. These shipments were destined for the United States, Saudi Arabia, Italy, Poland, and the United Arab Emirates.

At least two suspects linked to these smuggling attempts have been arrested. One of them, a 43-year-old businesswoman, Jakpor Egware May, was apprehended at the airport’s Gate ‘C’ departure hall while preparing to board an Air France flight to Italy on Saturday, March 8, 2025.

Upon searching her luggage, NDLEA officials discovered 190 parcels of tramadol (225mg) and an additional package of skunk, a potent strain of cannabis. During interrogation, she admitted to purchasing the drugs herself with the intent to resell them in Italy.

The NDLEA has intensified its crackdown on international drug trafficking networks, warning that it remains committed to dismantling illicit drug operations and bringing perpetrators to justice.