"NDLEA Uncovers Major Drug Cartel: Over ₦1 Billion Worth of Cannabis Seized in Victoria Island Hotel Raid"
Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have made a significant breakthrough in the fight against drug trafficking by raiding an 80-room hotel in Victoria Island, Lagos, leading to the seizure of illicit substances valued at over ₦1 billion. The operation took place between April 25 and 26, 2025, at a hotel known as The Hook Hotel, which also operates under the names Caesar Hotel and Caesar Lounge, located at 16 Waziri Ibrahim Street.
Details of the Raid
Seized Substances: During the raid, NDLEA agents recovered 589 bags of Canadian Loud, a potent strain of cannabis weighing a total of 417.3 kilograms. The street value of the seized drugs is estimated at ₦ 1.042 billion. This seizure highlights the scale of drug trafficking operations that can be hidden in seemingly legitimate businesses.
Arrests Made: Three suspects were apprehended during the operation: Eze Ayitu, Ofuokwu Samuel, and Emmanuel Ameh. Two additional suspects, identified as Noble Philip and Kenneth, are currently at large. The NDLEA has indicated that these individuals are believed to be part of a larger drug cartel operating within the hotel.
Additional Recoveries: The NDLEA also confiscated items believed to be proceeds from the drug trade, including several vehicles:
Toyota Prado Landcruiser Jeep
Toyota Sienna Vehicle
Volkswagen Delivery Van
Kia Ceranto Car
Grand Caravan Dodge
Furthermore, the agency recovered 74 new TV sets, 10 used TV sets, and 13 refrigerators from the premises, indicating the scale of operations and the potential profits involved in the drug trade.
Statements from NDLEA
Femi Babafemi, the NDLEA's spokesman, emphasized that the hotel was being used as a cover for distributing illicit substances. He noted that the operation was part of a broader effort to dismantle drug cartels operating in the region. Babafemi stated, "This raid is a clear indication of our commitment to combating drug trafficking and ensuring that those who engage in such activities are brought to justice."
In addition to this operation, the NDLEA reported other significant drug seizures across Nigeria. For instance, on April 23, operatives intercepted a shipment of opioids being transported from Kano to Niger Republic and Yobe State. This operation led to the arrest of two suspects and the recovery of 200,000 pills of tramadol and 217,500 capsules of pregabalin.
Community Impact and Ongoing Efforts
The NDLEA's actions are part of a larger strategy to combat drug abuse and trafficking in Nigeria. The agency has been actively engaging in community outreach programs to educate the public about the dangers of drug abuse. Recent activities included sensitisation lectures delivered to students and community members across various states aimed at raising awareness and reducing the demand for illicit drugs.
Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (Rtd), the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, commended the efforts of the agency's operatives in Lagos, Kano, Jigawa, and Edo states for their diligence in tackling drug-related crimes. He emphasised the importance of maintaining a balance between efforts to reduce drug supply and demand.
This operation underscores the NDLEA's commitment to combating drug-related crimes and ensuring public safety in Nigeria. The agency continues to urge the public to report any suspicious activities related to drug trafficking to assist in their ongoing efforts.
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