Army intercepts drug courier in Kogi, seizing 108.8kg of cannabis and handing the suspect to the NDLEA for further investigation

Troops of the 12 Brigade Nigerian Army in Lokoja on Monday intercepted a suspected drug courier transporting a large consignment of Cannabis Sativa from Ekiti State to Obajana in Kogi State, Lieutenant Hassan Abdullahi, Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, announced on Tuesday.

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The interception occurred during a routine stop-and-search by soldiers deployed at the Agbede Response Area.

The troops halted a Toyota Camry with registration number DKA 158AU driven by Mr Johnson Ayo after noticing a branded police hat and belt displayed on the dashboard, which immediately raised suspicion.

A detailed search uncovered ten sacks of Cannabis Sativa weighing 108.8 kilograms concealed inside the vehicle.

Preliminary findings suggested that operations of this scale help sustain criminal networks in Kogi and neighbouring states, often fuelling activities such as banditry and kidnapping.

Lieutenant Abdullahi said the suspect and the recovered exhibits had been handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency in Kogi State for further investigation and necessary action.

The Nigerian Army described the seizure as a significant step in efforts to curb drug trafficking and dismantle criminal chains operating through the state.

The Brigade reiterated its determination to support national security initiatives aimed at safeguarding communities and reducing the flow of illicit substances.

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Kogi has for years served as a strategic transit corridor due to its central location and extensive road network linking northern and southern regions, making it a frequent target for smugglers transporting narcotics, weapons and other contraband.