The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) is currently investigating a 34 year-old nursing mother, Mrs. Mbonu Chizoba in connection with the unlawful exportation of 6kg of cannabis to China. Officials detected the drug during routine inspection of cargoes at the Nigerian Aviation Handling Company (NAHCO) Shed, Murtala Mohammed International Airport (MMIA) Lagos. The compressed dried weeds that tested positive for cannabis was hidden in a luggage meant for export on an Ethiopian airline flight.
NDLEA Lagos Airport commander, Mr. Hamza Umur said that the suspect has a choice to be with her three (3) months old baby while investigation lasts. “The suspect Mrs. Mbonu Chizoba brought a bag for export to China. During search, 6kg of compressed cannabis was found inside the bag. The bag contains clothing, cell phones, cell phone batteries and shoes. She is currently undergoing investigation but she has a choice to be with her baby during the course of investigation” Hamza stated.
The suspect in her statement said that she is a victim of circumstance. In her words, “I am a licensed clearing and forwarding agent with 5 years working experience. I was given the bag by a client to send to China. In the process of search, the drug was found inside the bag. I was told that the bag contained sample goods, unfortunately drug was hidden inside”.
NDLEA Chairman/Chief Executive, Ahmadu Giade said that the Agency will intensify efforts in arresting other persons connected with the shipment. “Efforts are ongoing to identify and apprehend other persons connected with the case. The Agency will continue to prevent drugs from coming in and out of the country through superior counter-narcotic operations” Giade stated.
The suspect will be charged to court soon.
