The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has struck again, just months after the dramatic conviction of ten Thai sailors for drug trafficking into Nigeria. The agency has intercepted the MV Nord Bosporus, a vessel arriving from Brazil, at the bustling Apapa seaport in Lagos, revealing a shocking haul of over 20 kilograms of cocaine hidden under its cargo. 

During what was described as a routine inspection, NDLEA officers uncovered this illicit shipment that could have easily slipped through the cracks. The ship's Master, Captain Quino Eugene Corpus, along with his 19 Filipino crew members, is now in hot water, as they face a thorough investigation that has turned their world upside down.

In a swift move that demonstrates the NDLEA's determination, a motion was filed to detain the MV Nord Bosporus and its crew, which was promptly granted by Justice Musa Kakaki of the Federal High Court in Lagos. They now have a 14-day detention period to interrogate these alleged traffickers. 

Interestingly, this vessel is a newcomer to Nigerian shores, having primarily transported coal between Colombia and Brazil. With Captain Corpus only being aboard for a mere three months, one can't help but wonder about the connections he might have with the infamous global drug trade!

This interception eerily mirrors a previous scandal back in October 2021 when ten Thai sailors were caught aboard the MV Chayanee Naree with an astonishing 32.9 kilograms of cocaine. Their inevitable conviction in May 2025, complete with a whopping $4.3 million fine, serves as a stark warning for any would-be criminals thinking they can turn Nigeria into their drug haven.

Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa (rtd), the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the NDLEA, lauded the bravery and professionalism of his officers. He triumphantly declared this operation a testament to the agency’s unwavering commitment to stamping out drug trafficking. “This seizure is a clear demonstration of our heightened capacity and resolve,” he proclaimed, sending a bold message to drug cartels worldwide: "Nigeria is not your playground!"

His fiery rhetoric continues as he warns international drug cartels and any potential collaborators within Nigeria, asserting that the consequences for engaging in this illicit trade will be severe. “You may scheme and attempt sophisticated concealment, but you will fail,” he declared, boasting about their advanced intelligence network and international partnerships. It’s a battle of wits, and Nigeria is standing its ground!