NDLEA Secures Landmark Conviction of Foreign Crew, Vessel Over Cocaine Smuggling

NDLEA Secures Landmark Conviction of Foreign Crew, Vessel Over Cocaine Smuggling

By Haruna Aliyu

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has recorded a major breakthrough in its fight against drug trafficking, securing the conviction of 10 Filipino sailors alongside their vessel, MV Nord Bosporus, for smuggling 20 kilograms of cocaine into Nigeria.

Details of the development were disclosed in Abuja on Wednesday by the agency’s Director of Media and Advocacy, Mr Femi Babafemi, who confirmed that the court also imposed heavy financial penalties totalling six million dollars and an additional N1.1 million.

According to the agency, the illegal shipment was intercepted at the Apapa Seaport after operatives uncovered the narcotics carefully hidden within the cargo of the vessel, which had arrived from Santos, Brazil. The arrest of the crew and the ship took place on November 16, 2025, following a successful intelligence-led operation.

Reacting to the court ruling, the Chairman of NDLEA, retired Brigadier-General Buba Marwa, described the outcome as a strong affirmation of Nigeria’s commitment to enforcing its drug laws and protecting its borders from criminal networks.

He stressed that the judgement sends a clear warning to international traffickers that Nigeria’s maritime domain is no longer a safe route for illicit drug operations. Marwa noted that the hefty fine should serve as a deterrent to global drug syndicates and their collaborators.

The NDLEA’s boss further warned shipping companies and maritime operators against complicity in drug trafficking, emphasising that offenders risk losing both their liberty and valuable assets.

He highlighted that the agency is now intensifying efforts not only to seize illegal substances but also to dismantle the financial structures that sustain drug cartels.

Marwa also praised officers of the NDLEA Apapa Strategic Command for their vigilance and professionalism in detecting the concealed drugs. He added that the success builds on previous convictions, including that involving MV Chayanee Naree, demonstrating the effectiveness of the agency’s sustained enforcement strategy.

The chairman equally commended the Directorate of Prosecution and Legal Services for diligently handling the case, as well as the judiciary for ensuring a speedy trial.

Reaffirming the agency’s commitment, Marwa said the fight against drug trafficking remains critical to safeguarding Nigeria’s youth and strengthening national security, adding that ongoing improvements in intelligence gathering and technology would further boost operations.