NDLEA Uncovers Syndicate Planting Drugs in Saudi-bound Passengers’ Luggage

By Diafa Doubra,

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has exposed a criminal network operating at the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport, Kano, where unsuspecting passengers traveling to Saudi Arabia were used as couriers for illicit drugs.

According to the agency, members of the syndicate had perfected a system of loading prohibited substances into the luggage of pilgrims and other travelers, falsely labeling them in a manner that implicated innocent people. This shocking revelation followed weeks of investigations triggered by the detention of some Nigerian passengers in Saudi Arabia, who were accused of attempting to smuggle drugs into the country.

NDLEA Chairman, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (retd), disclosed that the agency’s operatives uncovered the plot during an intelligence-led operation at the Kano airport. He described the development as “a deliberate attempt by criminals to sabotage innocent Nigerians, tarnish the country’s image, and undermine international trust.”

Investigations revealed that the cartel comprised airport workers and outside collaborators who had access to passengers’ luggage before departure. They allegedly inserted parcels of drugs into bags already cleared by security checks, ensuring the owners were unaware of the contraband in their possession.

The NDLEA has since arrested some suspects linked to the plot, while a manhunt is ongoing for others believed to be part of the syndicate. The agency has vowed to prosecute all those involved to serve as a deterrent.

Reacting to the incident, families of the detained passengers in Saudi Arabia expressed relief that the truth was coming to light. Many had maintained that their loved ones were innocent and could never engage in drug trafficking.

The revelation has also sparked nationwide outrage, with calls on the federal government to strengthen airport security, install more surveillance equipment, and carry out a thorough audit of personnel at Nigeria’s international airports.

The NDLEA urged travelers to be vigilant and demand to be present whenever their luggage is being handled or checked in, to avoid falling victim to such schemes.

This latest bust underscores Nigeria’s ongoing battle against drug trafficking networks and highlights the need for stronger collaboration between security agencies to protect innocent citizens from being used as pawns by criminal syndicates.