NDLEA intercepts 10,000 captagon pills in Kwara as drug trafficking ring expands nationwide

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has intercepted 10,000 pills of the highly addictive stimulant known as Captagon in Kwara State, in what officials describe as one of the latest major drug seizures in the country.

According to the agency, the interception was made on April 21, 2026, along the Bode Saadu axis during a routine patrol operation targeting suspected traffickers moving illicit substances through commercial transport routes.

A 33-year-old suspect, Nasiru Mu’azu, was arrested after operatives discovered the drugs hidden among passengers in a trailer. A search of the suspect reportedly led to the recovery of 10 packs containing 10,000 Captagon pills alongside other controlled pharmaceutical substances.

Captagon, a powerful amphetamine-type stimulant, is widely abused in parts of the Middle East and is known to induce prolonged alertness, euphoria and reckless behaviour. Security experts also link its trade to funding of militant networks in conflict regions.

NDLEA said the latest seizure underscores the growing use of road transport routes by drug cartels attempting to evade airport and seaport security checks.

In a separate operation in Oyo State, the agency intercepted another suspect, Eze Prince Emeka, who allegedly ingested 45 pellets of cocaine. He was placed under medical observation and later excreted the drugs in phases, according to officials.

Further operations across the country led to additional seizures, including over one million opioid tablets in Edo State, large quantities of cannabis in Lagos and Cross River, and improvised explosive device components in Niger State.

The NDLEA said all suspects are under investigation as part of intensified efforts to dismantle drug trafficking networks operating across Nigeria.