Cocaine Drama at Enugu Airport as Businessman Allegedly Swallows 98 Wraps for €3,500 Trip to Europe
A 30-year-old Italy-based businessman has reportedly been arrested at the Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu after allegedly ingesting 98 wraps of cocaine weighing a total of 1.510 kilogrammes.
The suspect, identified as Joseph Cyril, was reportedly arrested by operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) on Sunday, August 2, 2026, during the outward clearance of passengers scheduled to board Ethiopian Airlines flight ET930.
According to the NDLEA, Cyril was placed under excretion observation following his arrest. The agency said he subsequently expelled all 98 wraps of the suspected cocaine.
Allegedly Ingested Drugs in Anambra Hotel
The NDLEA reportedly said preliminary investigations indicated that Cyril had travelled from Italy to Nigeria on July 13 before allegedly ingesting the drug wraps at a hotel in Awka, Anambra State.
He later travelled to Enugu, where he allegedly planned to board his flight out of Nigeria.
His reported route was to take him through Addis Ababa and France before eventually reaching Italy.
The agency said the suspect admitted during questioning that he had been involved in business activities in Italy for several years before allegedly agreeing to transport the drug consignment.
Allegedly Offered €3,500
According to his reported statement to investigators, Cyril allegedly agreed to carry the cocaine in exchange for €3,500.
The case adds to concerns over attempts by drug traffickers to use international air routes to move illegal substances across borders.
The NDLEA is expected to continue its investigation into the case, including efforts to establish the origin of the consignment and identify any other individuals who may have been involved.
The suspect’s reported arrest and the recovery of the alleged cocaine are now subject to the relevant legal process.
Disclaimer: This report is based on information attributed to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA). The allegations against the suspect remain allegations unless established in court, and he is presumed innocent until proven guilty according to law.
