The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency(NDLEA), has arrested the Nigerian Coordinator of Cocaine cartel,Afolabi Kazeem Michael, popularly known online as KC Luxury.
The agency disclosed that the suspect, who presented himself as a luxury goods dealer and social media influencer, was arrested at the boarding gate of Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, while attempting to leave the country on a business-class flight to Paris.
NDLEA informed that foreign currencies and luxury items were recovered from him, while a search of his residence in Banana Island, Lagos, led to the discovery of exotic vehicles.
Marwa said that the operation highlights a new trend among drug traffickers who are shifting from traditional routes to courier and logistics companies.
The agency said that with this operation, it has dismantled a major international cocaine trafficking network allegedly using Nigeria as a transit route to Europe and Asia.
According to the anti narcotic agency, the operation led to the seizure of 184.5 kilogrammes of cocaine concealed in a courier consignment in Lagos, described by the agency as the largest cocaine interception involving a courier company in Nigeria.
A statement signed by the agency’s spokesman, Mr Femi Babafemi, quoted the NDLEA Chairman, Brigadier General Buba Marwa (Rtd) as says that the syndicate planned to make about N39 billion from the shipment.
“There is no alternative route into or out of Nigeria for illicit drugs that this agency cannot police,” Marwa said.
The NDLEA boss disclosed that investigations traced the shipment to a network of individuals and companies, leading to the arrest of two key suspects.
“To those who believe they can hide behind luxury brands, glamorous lifestyles, and social media personas while trafficking poison, this Agency will find you,” he said.
The NDLEA chairman also confirmed collaboration with international partners, noting that some members of the syndicate were arrested in the United Kingdom.
He assured Nigerians that the agency would continue to disrupt drug networks and prevent the country from becoming a hub for international narcotics trafficking.
About The Author
