Nigeria’s anti-narcotics agency has roped in the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the UK National Crime Agency (NCA) in a high-stakes international investigation following the interception of 1,000 kilograms of cocaine valued at over $235 million (N338 billion) at the PTML Terminal, Tincan Island Port.
NDLEA spokesperson Femi Babafemi announced the joint operation Tuesday, calling it the largest single cocaine seizure ever recorded at Tincan Port.
The bust began last weekend when PTML terminal operators discovered the illicit cargo stashed inside an empty shipping container.
Alerted staff immediately notified port authorities, triggering a multi-agency response involving NDLEA, Nigeria Customs Service, and other security units.
“Field tests confirmed the substance as high-purity cocaine,” Babafemi said. The consignment was formally transferred to NDLEA custody on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, after a joint examination.
The breakthrough came after direct coordination between NDLEA Chairman/CEO Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (rtd) and Comptroller General of Customs Adewale Adeniyi.
Citing the seizure’s massive scale and suspected transnational syndicate links, Marwa ordered immediate engagement with global partners.“In swift response, DEA and NCA officers have joined the investigation,” Babafemi confirmed.
The probe aims to dismantle the cartel behind the smuggling ring, trace funding networks, and prevent future mega-shipments.
Click to signup for FREE news updates, latest information and hottest gists everyday
Advertise on NigerianEye.com to reach thousands of our daily users
