A court in Nigeria has convicted 11 Indian sailors and imposed a fine of $5.3 million on their merchant vessel for cocaine trafficking. The sailors were arrested approximately six months ago by operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for allegedly importing 31.5 kilograms of cocaine from the Marshall Islands into Nigeria through the Apapa seaport in Lagos, according to an NDLEA statement released on Thursday.
Details of the Conviction
The court's ruling marks a significant step in Nigeria's ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking. The vessel was fined $5.3 million, and the 11 Indian crew members were convicted for their involvement in the illicit drug trade. The NDLEA has been actively monitoring and intercepting drug shipments at Nigerian ports.
Related Incident: Nigerian National Arrested in Mumbai
In a separate case, a 46-year-old Nigerian national identified as Eze Samuel Nweze was arrested in Mumbai with 203 grams of cocaine, estimated to be valued at Rs 2.03 crore. The police reported that he was living illegally in Nalasopara near Mumbai. This arrest highlights the international dimensions of drug trafficking networks.
The NDLEA continues to collaborate with international agencies to curb the flow of narcotics through Nigerian borders. The conviction of the Indian sailors serves as a deterrent to others involved in similar illegal activities.
