The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), yesterday February 13th 2014, discovered 5 kilograms of high grade heroin concealed in prayer rugs at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos.
The praying rugs were said to have been imported from Pakistan.
The discovery was reportedly made during the inward screening of cargoes on Qatar Airline flight.
NDLEA Airport commander, Mr. Hamza Umar, said the examination of the consignment was witnessed by other security agents.
He reportedly said, “The consignment was given 100 per cent physical examination in the presence of customs officials and other security agents. During the search, we found 35 sachets of brown powdery substance that tested positive for heroin concealed inside praying rugs.
“Also, a 29-year-old man, Uchenna Osigwe, was arrested for ingesting nine wraps of methamphetamine weighing 400 grams. He tested positive for drug ingestion. The total value of both drugs is N45m.”
Osigwe allegedly expressed remorse, saying, “This is my first time of smuggling drugs. I feel sad because my pastor had warned me against crime.”
NDLEA Chairman, Mr. Ahmadu Giade, said, “Nigeria is winning the anti-narcotic crusade against all odds. Drug cartels only abandon their drugs when the operating environment is too hot for them.”