4 arrested as NDLEA intercepts UK-bound cocaine hidden in starch sachets at Lagos airport

The operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have intercepted cocaine concealed in factory-sealed sachets of cold-water starch heading to the United Kingdom at the export shed of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Ikeja, Lagos State.

The NDLEA Director of Media and Advocacy, Femi Babafemi, disclosed this via a statement issued on Sunday, December 28, 2025.

Babafemi said a notorious drug trafficker, Nwobodo Chidiebere Basil, previously convicted of dealing in 30.10kg methamphetamine in 2023 was arrested in connection with the seizure of the 75 parcels of cocaine weighing 1.50 kilograms.

The NDLEA spokesman noted that three cargo agents ― Jubrin Firdausi Hassana, Kuku Daniel Oluwasegun, and Igwe Chioma Jane ― involved in the attempt to export the consignment to the UK were swiftly arrested on December 20, 2025, before further investigations unraveled 37-year-old Basil as the mastermind.

Babafemi said Basil was arrested in a follow-up operation at a popular relaxation centre in Ikeja where he went on a date with his girlfriend on December 21.

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He added: “The Agency’s criminal database revealed that Nwobodo had been arrested in May 2023 in connection with the seizure of 30.10kg methamphetamine concealed in powdered custard containers as part of a consolidated cargo going to London, United Kingdom, at the export shed of the Lagos airport.

“He was subsequently arraigned at a Federal High Court in charge number: FHC/L/337C/2023, convicted and sentenced to five years imprisonment with an option of a fine of ₦7,000,000.00, along with one-month community service, with effect from 4th December, 2023. He paid the fine and soon after returned to the same crime.”

The Star