Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have arrested a traditional chief priest, Bariu Aliu, also known as “Malo”, in connection with a drug syndicate operating from the Igunuko Shrine in Alpha Beach, Ajah, Lagos State.

NDLEA spokesperson Femi Babafemi announced the arrest on Sunday, following a three-month manhunt. The suspect was apprehended after 2,760 kilograms of skunk were recovered from his shrine on 25 October 2024.

Babafemi noted that although two of Aliu’s accomplices were arrested, charged, and convicted last year, the chief priest was identified as the leader of the syndicate.

In a separate operation, NDLEA intercepted a 40-foot trailer carrying 2,217.6 kilograms of skunk during an intelligence-led operation in Kagini, Abuja. Babafemi revealed that the drugs were destined for distribution across northern states.

The operation, conducted in the early hours of 11 January 2025, also led to the seizure of six vehicles and the arrest of a suspect, Isaac Monday Desmond, aged 42. The consignment had been loaded in Uzebba, Edo State.

Further seizures included 20 wraps of cocaine, weighing 330 grams, concealed in face cream containers and destined for Australia via a logistics company in Lagos.

Babafemi said: “The NDLEA remains committed to disrupting drug syndicates and ensuring those responsible are brought to justice.”