74-Year-Old Arrested for Smuggling Cocaine at Abuja Airport

On March 14, 2026, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) arrested 74-year-old Ikwuakalom Emeka Nnamdi at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja. He was apprehended in the departure hall while attempting to board British Airways flight BA082 to Heathrow, London.

A search of his luggage revealed 11 kilograms of cocaine concealed within food items, specifically ground dry pepper, which was carefully wrapped in foil paper and balloons. Femi Babafemi, the agency's spokesman, confirmed the details in a statement released on Sunday.

The NDLEA has been actively conducting operations to combat drug trafficking, and this arrest highlights their ongoing efforts to intercept large consignments of illicit drugs at airports across the country.