NIGERIA: NDLEA, US-DEA, UK-NCA Launch Joint Probe into $235m Cocaine Seizure at Lagos Port

By Ameenat Hamzat, Lagos, Nigeria

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has commenced a joint investigation with the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the United Kingdom’s National Crime Agency (NCA) following the recovery of 1,000 kilograms of cocaine at the PTML Terminal of Tincan Island Port, Lagos.

The consignment, reportedly worth over $235 million (approximately ₦338 billion), was discovered by port operators who raised an alarm after noticing suspicious packages in an empty container. Subsequent joint examination by security operatives, including NDLEA and Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) officials, confirmed the substance to be cocaine.

Following the discovery, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (rtd), held high-level discussions with the Comptroller General of Customs, Dr Adewale Adeniyi, leading to the formal handover of the seized consignment to the NDLEA on Tuesday, November 11, 2025.

Brig. Gen. Marwa described the operation as “a significant breakthrough in Nigeria’s fight against drug trafficking and organised crime.”

He emphasised that the agency was working closely with international partners to ensure a comprehensive investigation into the cartel behind the shipment.

Brig. Gen. Marwa further noted: “No stone will be left unturned in dismantling the criminal network responsible for this shipment. This seizure is not just a win for Nigeria but a strong message to drug traffickers worldwide that our ports are not safe havens for their illicit trade.”

Operatives of the US-DEA and UK-NCA have since joined the ongoing investigation, marking one of the largest cocaine seizures ever recorded at the Lagos port.

Marwa reaffirmed NDLEA’s commitment to intensifying counter-narcotics operations nationwide, pledging to tighten port surveillance and strengthen inter-agency collaboration in the global war against drugs.