Lekki Restaurant Owner Apprehended in U.S.-Nigeria Drug…

Arokodare Damil Ebenezer, a 43-year-old Lekki restaurant owner, was arrested for alleged drug trafficking involving 60 parcels of cannabis. The NDLEA executed multiple operations across Nigeria, leading to substantial drug recoveries and several arrests in connection with drug-related crimes. These actions reflect the agency’s continued efforts to address drug trafficking issues nationwide.

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has arrested Arokodare Damil Ebenezer, a 43-year-old restaurant owner in Lekki, Lagos, for alleged involvement in drug trafficking. Ebenezer was apprehended at the Bay Lounge on March 24, 2025, while awaiting a shipment of 60 parcels containing Loud, a potent cannabis strain imported from the United States. His operations were part of a larger investigation into narcotics importation.

The arrest followed the interception of a cargo arriving in Lagos on March 12, which contained seven large cartons. NDLEA operatives seized this shipment at a logistics company. Following his arrest, a search of Ebenezer’s residence led to the recovery of 94 grams of cannabis and other drug paraphernalia, totaling 32.24 kilograms of narcotics in his possession.

Ebenezer reportedly stated that he commenced his illicit drug activities in 2017. Furthermore, the NDLEA foiled another drug trafficking attempt by a separate suspect, Omoruyi Terry, who attempted to export 1,400 tramadol pills to Italy via Murtala Muhammed International Airport. Omoruyi, a frequent traveler and logistics agent based in Italy, was intercepted just before his flight.

In a related operation, officials arrested four individuals in Katsina during an intelligence-led raid, recovering 684 blocks of compressed skunk, 423 kg in total, and 86,000 diazepam pills. The suspects were detained while allegedly repackaging drugs; all were found in possession of substantial quantities of narcotics.

Additionally, between March 24 and March 28, NDLEA operatives destroyed about 13,198 kg of cannabis sativa in Edo State forests and seized further amounts for prosecution. The raids identified and dismantled four cannabis plantations in various local areas.

The NDLEA also reported intercepting a vehicle carrying 179 blocks of compressed skunk weighing 77.6 kg in Niger State, apprehending both suspects present. Further drug recoveries included 50 kg of skunk from a suspect’s residence and additional quantities from various locations in Kwara and Oyo states.

The arrest of Arokodare Damil Ebenezer and subsequent drug seizures highlight ongoing efforts by the NDLEA to combat drug trafficking in Nigeria. Multiple operations have resulted in significant drug recoveries and arrests across different states. The agency’s vigilance remains crucial in dismantling drug distribution networks and safeguarding public health.

Original Source: saharareporters.com