A suspected international cocaine trafficking cartel has been dismantled by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), with the alleged Nigerian ringleader arrested while attempting to leave the country for Paris.
The NDLEA said it intercepted 184.50 kilogrammes of cocaine worth an estimated N39 billion in a major investigation targeting a syndicate allegedly using courier and logistics companies to move drugs across international borders.
The agency identified the alleged cartel leader as Afolabi Kazeem Michael, popularly known online as “KC Luxury”. According to the NDLEA, Michael presented himself as a luxury goods dealer and social media influencer while allegedly operating the drug trafficking network.
Another suspect, Lawal Mujab Kehinde, described as a logistics staff member, was also arrested. The agency said he was responsible for processing shipments linked to the syndicate for destinations in the United Kingdom, Europe and Asia.
NDLEA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Marwa (retd.), said Michael was arrested on August 13 at the boarding gate of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, as he attempted to board a business-class flight to Paris. Operatives reportedly recovered €7,750, £2,800 and N100,000, as well as expensive jewellery, from him.
A subsequent search of Michael’s residence in Banana Island, Lagos, led to the seizure of several exotic vehicles, the agency said. Marwa said the arrest followed intelligence indicating that the suspect was preparing to leave Nigeria.
“This cartel leader did not walk into our custody voluntarily. Upon credible intelligence that he intended to flee the country, our operatives moved decisively and apprehended him at the boarding gate just as he attempted to escape the reach of the law,” Marwa said.
The NDLEA boss also raised concerns about the alleged use of courier and logistics companies by trafficking networks, saying criminal organisations increasingly view such businesses as easier channels for moving illicit drugs. He added that international cooperation played a role in the operation, with British authorities making near-simultaneous arrests of other alleged members of the network.
Marwa warned drug traffickers against attempting to conceal their activities behind luxury businesses, expensive lifestyles or social media influence. He said the agency would continue to pursue those involved in the illegal drug trade, regardless of the image they project publicly.
