Nigerian Army forces achieved a significant breakthrough on Sunday as they intercepted a suspected transnational drug syndicate along the Balogun border in Ogun. The operation, conducted by the 192 Battalion, 81 Division, resulted in the apprehension of two individuals and the confiscation of 296 wraps of a substance suspected to be Cannabis Sativa.
According to Maj.-Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu, the Director of Army Public Relations, the successful interception was based on credible intelligence that led the vigilant troops to inspect a Sienna 2001 Model Space Bus, bearing the registration number Lagos APP 129 EF. The vehicle was found to be concealing the illicit substances within layers of compartments.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the wraps of illicit substance had been transported from Benin Republic, passing through Ilara border communities en route to Ifo, Ogun. The traffickers had meticulously concealed the substance over five months for delivery to their clients.
The operation resulted in the arrest of two suspects, Mr. Adigun Olatunji, 54 years old, and Mr. Michael Atanda, 18 years old, both hailing from Ilara Imeko in Afun Local Government Area of Ogun, and residing in Benin Republic. After a failed attempt to bribe the troops with the sum of N12 million, the suspects have been taken into custody for further necessary actions.
This successful interception highlights the ongoing efforts to curb transnational drug trafficking and underscores the dedication of the Nigerian Army in combating illicit activities that threaten the well-being of the nation.
