In a startling case of narcotics smuggling, the Central Crime Branch (CCB) in Bengaluru has apprehended a 29-year-old Nigerian woman for allegedly trafficking cocaine by using a deceptive method: concealing the drugs inside loaves of bread.
Unusual Concealment Method Uncovered
The arrest unfolded after CCB sleuths, acting on a specific tip-off, detained the accused, identified as Olajide Esther Iyanuoluwa. Information suggested that a Nigerian woman was travelling from Mumbai to Bengaluru via a private bus and was scheduled to meet a local drug peddler near Varthur. A team intercepted her soon after she arrived in the city.
During a search of her belongings, officers made the bizarre discovery. 121 grams of high-purity cocaine, with an estimated street value of around ₹1.2 crore, was found hidden inside ordinary bread loaves. Police revealed that holes had been deliberately drilled into the bread to create cavities for concealing the narcotic substance. The modified loaves were then packed alongside other food items in her backpack to avoid raising suspicion.
Student Visa Misused for Drug Racket
Investigations into Olajide's background revealed that she had entered India last year on a student visa, arriving in New Delhi. However, she never enrolled in any educational institution, contrary to the purpose of her visa. Instead, she frequently changed her residence across Mumbai and its suburbs, including locations in Ghatkopar (Gala Nagar), Ambawadi, and Nallasopara, allegedly to engage in drug trafficking activities.
According to senior police officials, Olajide had procured the cocaine from a male associate in Mumbai. She was then instructed to personally transport and deliver the consignment to another Nigerian national living in Bengaluru. "She was directed to carry the drug herself and hand it over... This was done to minimise suspicion and avoid courier-based interception," an investigating officer stated, highlighting the deliberate strategy to bypass security checks.
Follow-up Arrest and Ongoing Probe
Based on the information provided by the arrested accused, the CCB conducted a follow-up operation in the Varthur area. This led to the arrest of the intended recipient of the cocaine, another Nigerian national. Officials confirmed that the prospective buyer was deported from the country following his arrest.
The case has thrown light on the innovative and audacious methods employed by drug trafficking networks. "The case shows how traffickers are constantly innovating ways, using common household items and food as cover," a senior officer remarked. In response to such tactics, the CCB has intensified its surveillance on interstate drug movement networks.
Further investigations are currently underway to trace the larger supply chain and identify other associates involved in this racket. Police have issued a stern warning, affirming that strict legal action will be taken against anyone involved in the trafficking of narcotics.
