Lagos Drug Syndicate Dismantled By NDLEA, Tramadol Pills And Codeine Syrup Seized Worth N6.7 Billion

 

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency has successfully dismantled a major opioid trafficking network in Lagos, arresting the alleged kingpin Onyekachi Pius Nwanagu alongside five other suspected members of his criminal syndicate. The breakthrough operation resulted in the seizure of illicit substances valued at over N6.7 billion from a concealed warehouse in a residential estate.

According to the agency’s Director of Media and Advocacy, Femi Babafemi, the crackdown followed intelligence indicating that the network was preparing to distribute more than 7.2 million tramadol 225mg tablets and 526,200 bottles of codeine syrup, equivalent to 52.6 million millilitres, ahead of the upcoming Christmas celebrations.

NDLEA’s Special Operations Unit conducted coordinated raids between November 19 and 20, 2025, targeting key locations linked to the syndicate. Initial arrests took place at Apple Junction, Festac, where two suspects, Egbo Innocent Udalor and Chukwe Emmanuel, were apprehended with 300 cartons of opioids loaded in a truck. The operation quickly expanded to a warehouse at 23 Sunny Billa East Street, Bucknor, Isheri, Isolo, where Nwanagu and three associates—Nwoye Sunday Ali, Nnacho Ogochukwu, and Oraghalia Chukwuebuka Philip—were arrested.

The combined seizure from both operations included 7,272,000 tramadol pills valued at N3.96 billion and 53 million millilitres of codeine syrup worth N2.76 billion. NDLEA officers transported the confiscated drugs in 11 trucks to the agency’s central exhibit complex in Lagos, ensuring that the massive stockpile was secured and documented.

NDLEA Chairman and Chief Executive, Brigadier-General Mohamed Buba Marwa, commended the officers for their dedication and professionalism, describing the arrests and seizures as a major setback to drug cartels targeting Nigerian youth. Marwa emphasized that the operation highlights the agency’s commitment to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive to intensify the fight against illicit drugs, noting that persistent efforts are necessary to disrupt the networks fueling addiction and criminal activities across the country.

“This operation is more than just an arrest; it is a decisive statement against the circulation of harmful drugs that threaten public safety. Seizing this enormous quantity of opioids prevents addiction, crime, and insecurity from spreading nationwide,” Marwa said. He further underscored the NDLEA’s determination to pursue drug kingpins and financiers relentlessly, reinforcing the message that those involved in illegal narcotics will face justice.

Authorities indicated that investigations into the syndicate’s operations are ongoing, with efforts to trace other members and financiers of the network. The success of the Lagos operation is expected to serve as a strong deterrent to other criminal groups seeking to exploit Nigerian communities through the illicit drug trade.

The NDLEA’s strategic intervention comes at a critical time, as demand for opioids continues to rise among vulnerable populations. By dismantling this network, the agency has not only averted potential social crises but also reaffirmed its mandate to safeguard public health and security throughout Nigeria.