Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
Troops have intercepted a significant consignment of illicit drugs along the Lokoja–Abuja Highway, seizing 273 compressed packets of suspected Cannabis Sativa weighing approximately 235 kilograms and arresting the driver of the vehicle. The operation, conducted on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, underscores the military's continued vigilance in denying criminal elements freedom of action and reinforcing ongoing efforts to curb the trafficking of illicit substances across the country.
According to security sources, the troops were on routine patrol along the busy highway when they flagged down a vehicle, a XLS with registration number BNG-326BN (Kaduna State), which was travelling from Okitipupa, Ondo State, to Abuja. Upon conducting a thorough search of the vehicle, the operatives discovered the illicit consignment cleverly concealed within the vehicle. The driver, identified as Ayodeji John, a 30-year-old male, was immediately taken into custody for questioning. Preliminary investigations and profiling confirmed the suspect's involvement in the transportation of the illicit consignment. Following his arrest, both the suspect and the recovered exhibits were formally handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further investigation and possible prosecution.
The successful operation highlights the vigilance and professionalism of troops in denying criminal elements freedom of action and reinforces ongoing efforts to curb the trafficking of illicit substances. The interception comes amid intensified operations by security agencies targeting drug trafficking networks, particularly along major highways used to transport illicit substances from southern Nigeria to northern markets. The Lokoja–Abuja Highway has become a major transit route for drug traffickers due to its strategic location linking the southern and northern parts of the country.
The NDLEA has been at the forefront of the fight against drug trafficking, with recent operations resulting in significant seizures of illicit substances. In a recent operation, the agency's operatives intercepted a Mercedes Benz truck carrying 2,331 kilograms of cannabis along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway. The agency has also been carrying out raids and arrests in various parts of the country, targeting drug dealers, traffickers, and other individuals involved in the illicit drug trade. The latest seizure is expected to be a significant blow to drug trafficking networks operating in the region, and the NDLEA has assured the public that it will continue its efforts to combat the scourge of drug abuse and trafficking in Nigeria.
The military has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the NDLEA and other security agencies in the fight against drug trafficking and other forms of transnational organised crime. The interception of the illicit consignment is a testament to the effectiveness of inter-agency cooperation and intelligence-led operations in combating criminal activities. As the investigation continues, the NDLEA has urged members of the public to provide information on drug trafficking activities in their communities. The agency has also warned that anyone found involved in drug trafficking will face the full weight of the law.
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