Officials of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos are currently investigating the alleged involvement of a thirty-eight year old mother of three children over attempt to export 2.04kg of cannabis to South Africa. The dried weed that tested positive for cannabis was concealed in cartons of knorr seasoning cubes. The suspect, Rashidat Abdulkarim during interrogation has accused her husband who lives in South Africa of implicating her.
NDLEA airport commander, Mr. Hamza Umar said that the drug was seized at the cargo section of Nigerian Aviation Handling Company (NAHCO). “The seizure was made during routine screening of goods at the cargo section. During a careful search, 2.04kg of cannabis was found to be concealed in a carton of knorr seasoning. Other items in the luggage are local textiles and herbal medicines. The consignor was immediately arrested following the discovery of the cannabis” Hamza stated.
Rashidat who sells female shoes and hand bags said that she is still in deep shock that cannabis was found in the consignment sent to her by the husband. “I am in shock and pain that my husband is behind my problem. My husband sent twenty-eight thousand naira to buy locally made textiles. He also told me that one man will bring food seasoning and herbal medicines to me. I bought the textiles and added it to the seasoning bought by the man. On getting to the airport, drug was found inside the carton of seasoning. I am so sad and disappointed” Rashidat stated. She hails from Lagos State.
She also expressed her worry over her children. In her words, “I struggle to fend for myself and my three children. Even before my husband travelled to South Africa he left me with the upkeep of the family. I have suffered so much financial neglect. I have never smuggled drugs all my life. He had done the worst. My eldest child is only thirteen years”.
Chairman/Chief Executive of NDLEA, Ahmadu Giade has promised to carry out detailed investigation. “The case is being investigated and all those involved in the crime will not go unpunished”.
