The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has made a significant breakthrough in disrupting an international cocaine trafficking ring, involving a foreign national and a 69-year-old medical doctor. Operatives of the agency arrested an Ivorian national, Gohouri Michael, 41, at the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport, Kano, during the outward clearance of passengers on an Ethiopian Airlines flight to Milan, Italy, via Addis Ababa.
According to the NDLEA spokesperson, Femi Babafemi, Gohouri was found to have ingested 82 wraps of cocaine, weighing 1.49kg. Further intelligence uncovered a suspected coordinator behind the operation, leading to the arrest of the doctor, Dr Chudi Ofomata, in Ogun State. NDLEA operatives tracked the doctor to his residence in Magboro, Obafemi Owode Local Government Area, where he was arrested on March 27, 2026.
The investigation revealed that Gohouri had been shuttling between Lagos and Enugu for three weeks before traveling to Kano, where he ingested the cocaine consignment in his hotel room. He was expected to deliver the drugs in Milan, Italy, and was promised 5,000 Euros for the service. The NDLEA also recovered 63 grams of promazepam and 7 ampoules of promethazine injection from Dr Ofomata at the point of his arrest.
The arrest of Gohouri and Dr Ofomata is a significant blow to international cocaine trafficking rings operating in Nigeria. The NDLEA has been working tirelessly to disrupt these networks, and this breakthrough demonstrates the agency's commitment to combating the illicit drug trade. The arrest of a 69-year-old medical doctor, who was involved in the operation, raises questions about the involvement of professionals in organized crime.
The NDLEA's efforts to disrupt international cocaine trafficking rings are crucial in addressing the growing concern of drug abuse in Nigeria. The agency's success in arresting key players in these networks sends a strong message that the consequences of involvement in the illicit drug trade are severe. As the NDLEA continues to work to dismantle these networks, it is essential for the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities.
The community impact of this operation is significant, as it demonstrates the NDLEA's ability to disrupt international cocaine trafficking rings operating in Nigeria. The agency's efforts will continue to contribute to the reduction of the illicit drug trade in the country. As the investigation unfolds, it is essential for the public to remain informed about the progress and the measures being taken to address the issue.
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