By Abel Orukpe – Correspondent, Lagos
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has foiled attempt by two suspected drug traffickers to smuggle 5.1kg of white powdery substances that tested positive for cocaine into the country through Akanu Ibiam International Airport (AIIA) Enugu.
The NDLEA Commander at the Enugu Airport, Nsikak-Abasi Udoh,who disclosed this yesterday said that the drugs were intercepted at AIIA Enugu, during the inward screening of passengers on an Ethiopian Airline flight.
He explained that the drugs were concealed inside hand bags and document folders, adding that two arrests have been made in connection with the seizure.
The Commander 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”.
He added that Okoye Ikechukwu Matthew, 34-years-old, who works as a security guard in South Africa told officials of the anti drug agency that he brought the drug for his friend.
The Enugu NDLEA Airport Commander disclosed that the suspects will soon be charged to court.
“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
who hails from Ezeagu in Enugu State, stated.
Dominic Junior Igwe, 29-years-old trader on his part, said 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 confessed. He hails from Ebonyi State.
Commenting on the arrest, the Chief Executive of the NDLEA, Ahmadu Giade, directed the Enugu Airport Command to tighten security checks at the Airport.
Source : Independent
