NDLEA and Australian Police Unite Against Drug Trafficking

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the Australian Federal Police (AFP) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Monday in Abuja to dismantle transnational drug trafficking networks along the Nigeria–Australia route. NDLEA Chairman, retired Brig.-Gen. Buba Marwa, described the agreement as a declaration of war against international drug cartels, aiming to make the Australia–Nigeria drug route hostile for traffickers.

Marwa noted the increasing sophistication of drug trafficking, linking Nigerian organized crime groups to the Australia–Pacific drug route, particularly in methamphetamine and cocaine trafficking. He expressed hope for significant joint seizures and arrests as a result of the agreement.

Recent operations included the seizure of 184.5 kilogrammes of cocaine and the dismantling of four methamphetamine laboratories, with involvement from Mexican nationals. Marwa also mentioned the dismantling of a Switzerland-based cartel allegedly led by Nigerian Simon Amadi, following collaboration with the US DEA and other international police.

AFP delegation head Sandra Booth emphasized the need for a coordinated response to drug trafficking.