NDLEA flags rising use of courier services for drugs

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency has raised fresh concerns over the use of unsuspecting Nigerians as couriers for illicit drugs, warning citizens against receiving parcels on behalf of individuals abroad.

The agency’s Director of Media and Advocacy, Femi Babafemi, issued the caution on Sunday, noting that recipients of such consignments could face full criminal liability if illegal substances are discovered in the packages.

His warning followed the interception of drugs concealed in imported snack items, a method he said is increasingly used by international trafficking networks.

Babafemi explained that drug syndicates often exploit relatives and associates in Nigeria, either knowingly or unknowingly, to receive shipments sent through courier services.

He stressed that anyone found in possession of such parcels would be held responsible under the law, regardless of claims of ignorance.

To avoid falling victim, he advised Nigerians to verify the contents of any shipment through a live video call during packaging before agreeing to receive it.

Where this is not possible, he urged individuals to reject the parcel entirely, irrespective of any incentives offered.

The NDLEA reiterated that citizens must remain vigilant and avoid becoming unwitting participants in drug trafficking schemes.