The Zone 2 Command of the Nigeria Police Force has achieved a significant breakthrough in its anti-narcotics campaign after operatives rejected a massive N500 million bribe and intercepted an international drug syndicate.
During a raid on a residential building in the Maryland area of Lagos State, police uncovered a large haul of illicit drugs valued at N7.8 billion. The operation targeted the inflow of foreign synthetic drugs into Nigeria and led to the arrest of key members of the trafficking network, including the prime kingpin, Eke Ifeanyi Henry.
In a dramatic twist, the suspects offered a N500 million cash bribe to the police, which was flatly rejected. The Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone 2, AIG Olohundare Jimoh, disclosed that officers of the Special Protection Unit, collaborating with local detectives, stormed the hideout.
Recovered items include thousands of packs of Canadian Loud cannabis, a large international shipment worth billions, the N500 million bribe money, and vehicles used for distribution. The seized Canadian Loud is valued at N7.8 billion.
Officials stated that the breakthrough has disrupted a vital financial and logistical route for the cartel's operations in the West African subregion. Canadian Loud is a specially engineered, indoor-grown cannabis variant with high THC levels, often smuggled into Nigeria and sold at premium prices.
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Disu, commended the integrity of the arresting team, stating that the operation validates ongoing structural discipline and sets a new ethical benchmark. The refusal of the bribe is expected to send a strong message to criminal syndicates and boost public confidence.
Investigations are ongoing to arrest other fleeing members of the cartel, and tactical teams are conducting wider sweeps across border entry points. Collaborations with international anti-narcotics agencies are reportedly ongoing.
Successful prosecution of the suspects could improve Nigeria's global standing in the fight against transnational organized crime and discourage international syndicates from targeting Nigerian ports.
