Troops of the 81 Division Nigerian Army (NA) have successfully dismantled the activities of a transborder drug trafficking syndicate in Ogun State. The operation, which took place at the Balogun checkpoint in Ado-Odo, Ota Local Government Area along the Nigeria-Benin Republic border, led to the interception of a Mitsubishi truck carrying large quantities of high-grade Indian hemp.

During a meticulous search of the vehicle, the troops uncovered 301 pawpaw-sized wraps and 197 A3 paper-sized sealed packets of the illicit substance. These items were ingeniously hidden in a custom-built lower double-bunker cabinet within the truck, further concealed by 45 sacks of animal feed.

Two suspects were apprehended during the operation, and the troops, demonstrating commendable integrity, rejected substantial bribe offers from the suspects. Preliminary investigations have linked the suspects to a notorious transborder drug cartel leader based in the Eko Mushin area of Ogun State.

Additional items seized during the operation include mobile phones—one each of Gionee, Tecno, and Itel—five identification cards, a pack of cigarettes, and 6,000 CFA.

The suspects, along with the seized items, have been handed over to the Ogun State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further investigation and prosecution.

This operation underscores the 81 Division’s commitment to supporting other security agencies in combating drug trafficking and other forms of criminality. The Division reiterated its resolve to work in collaboration with other security agencies to safeguard Nigeria’s national security.

Lieutenant Colonel Olabisi Olalekan Ayeni, Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations for the 81 Division Nigerian Army, confirmed the success of the operation in a statement issued on November 19, 2024.