Nigeria’s anti-narcotics authorities have arrested 22 Indian nationals following the discovery of large quantities of cocaine and tramadol concealed inside coffee sachets, exposing a sophisticated trafficking method aimed at evading airport and border security checks.
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) confirmed the arrests on Tuesday, describing the operation as a major breakthrough in its ongoing crackdown on international drug trafficking networks using Nigeria as a transit and destination hub.
According to the agency, the suspects were apprehended during coordinated intelligence-led operations carried out at multiple locations, including logistics points linked to outbound and inbound cargo. Investigators said the traffickers used commercially branded coffee sachets to disguise illicit substances, exploiting the popularity and routine movement of packaged beverages to avoid detection.
Drugs Concealed in Plain Sight
NDLEA officials revealed that laboratory tests confirmed the presence of cocaine and tramadol carefully sealed within coffee sachets designed to appear factory-produced. The packaging, authorities said, was intended to mislead handlers, scanners, and unsuspecting distributors.
“This method shows a high level of planning and international coordination,” an NDLEA source said. “The drugs were deliberately concealed in everyday consumer items to beat profiling systems.”
The seized tramadol tablets were described as high-dose variants commonly abused and trafficked illegally due to their addictive and psychoactive effects.
Coordinated Arrests and Investigation
The 22 suspects, all identified as Indian nationals, were taken into custody as NDLEA operatives moved swiftly to dismantle what investigators believe is a well-organized supply chain stretching across borders.
Officials said preliminary findings suggest the group played different roles within the network, including logistics coordination, packaging, courier recruitment, and distribution. Further arrests are not being ruled out as investigations continue.
The NDLEA added that digital devices, travel documents, and financial records recovered during the operation are being analyzed to trace links to international drug syndicates.
NDLEA Vows Relentless Crackdown
Reacting to the arrests, the NDLEA leadership reiterated its commitment to disrupting drug trafficking routes and prosecuting offenders regardless of nationality.
“The agency will not allow criminal networks to exploit Nigeria’s markets, airports, or borders,” an NDLEA spokesperson said. “We remain resolute in protecting public health and national security.”
The agency also warned traffickers against underestimating modern surveillance and intelligence capabilities, noting that concealment techniques are increasingly being exposed through profiling, technology, and inter-agency cooperation.
Wider Implications
Drug trafficking remains a major concern for Nigerian authorities, with increasing attempts by international syndicates to smuggle narcotics using creative concealment methods. Analysts say the use of common household items underscores the evolving tactics of traffickers seeking to stay ahead of law enforcement.
Public health advocates have also raised concerns about the growing circulation of tramadol, particularly among young people, linking its abuse to rising cases of addiction and mental health challenges.
Next Steps
The suspects are expected to be charged to court after the conclusion of investigations. NDLEA officials said the agency is working closely with international partners to track the origin of the drugs and identify foreign collaborators connected to the network.
As the case unfolds, authorities say the operation serves as a warning to organized crime groups that Nigeria’s drug enforcement systems are increasingly proactive and globally connected.
