NDLEA/PUBAF/074/ VOL. V /364
PRESS RELEASE
Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have foiled attempt by two suspected drug traffickers to smuggle 5.1kg of white powdery substances that tested positive for cocaine into the country. The drugs were intercepted at Akanu Ibiam International Airport (AIIA) Enugu during the inward screening of passengers on an Ethiopian Airline flight. The drugs were concealed inside hand bags and document folders. Two arrests have been made in connection with the seizure.
The NDLEA Commander at the Enugu Airport, Nsikak-Abasi Udoh gave the names of the suspects as Okoye Ikechukwu Matthew with passport number A04483481 and Dominic Junior Igwe with passport number A02375991. According to Nsikak-Abasi “Okoye Ikechukwu Matthew was arrested with 1.500kg of cocaine hidden inside hand bags while Dominic Junior Igwe was found in possession of 3.600kg of cocaine concealed inside three folders. The total weight of the seized drugs is 5.1kg”.
Okoye Ikechukwu Matthew, 34-years-old who works as a security guard in South Africa told officials that he brought the drug for his friend. “I work as a security guard in South Africa. It was my friend in Nigeria that requested for the drug. My role was to bring it and he will reward me. It happened that I was arrested by NDLEA. I feel bad and pray that I will soon be out of this problem” Okoye stated. He hails from Ezeagu in Enugu State.
Dominic Junior Igwe, 29-years-old trader said that he got involved in drug trafficking because he needed money. “I am a trader but I am unable to pay my rent. My capital has dwindled over the years to the extent that I am in debts. I was sponsored to Sao-Paulo, Brazil to bring cocaine. I regret my involvement” Dominic stated. He hails from Ebonyi State.
Chairman/Chief Executive of the NDLEA, Ahmadu Giade has directed the Enugu Airport Command to tighten security checks at the Airport. “This arrest and seizure is a welcome development, because we must eradicate illicit drugs from our country. I want the commander to intensify security checks and ensure the interception of narcotics at the Enugu Airport” Giade stated.
The suspects will soon be charged to court.
Ofoyeju Mitchell
Head, Public Affairs
