Nursing mother held over cannabis exportation

SEPTEMBER 24, 2013 

Cannabis, Nbonu

A 34-year-old nursing mother, Mrs. Chizoba Mbonu, has been arrested by officials of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency in connection with the unlawful exportation of six kilogrames of cannabis to China.

The drug was said to have been detected during a routine inspection of cargoes at the Nigerian Aviation Handling Company Shed, Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Lagos.

The compressed dried weeds that tested positive for cannabis was hidden in a luggage meant for export on an Ethiopian airline flight.

PUNCH Metro gathered that the suspect, requested that she be allowed access to her baby after her arrest.

NDLEA Lagos Airport commander, Mr. Hamza Umur confirmed the arrest.

He said, “Chizoba had brought a bag for export to China. During search, six kilogrammes of compressed cannabis was found inside the bag. Also contained in the bag, were clothing, cell phones, cell phone batteries and shoes.

“The case is already under investigation. As a nursing mother with a three-month-old baby, Mbonu has a choice to be with her baby during the course of investigation.”

Mbonu, however, claimed that she was a victim of circumstance.

She said, “I am a customs licensed agent with five years working experience. I was given the bag by a client to send to China.

“I was told that the bag contained sample goods, unfortunately drug was hidden inside. I didn’t know there were drugs hidden inside until when it was discovered during the search.”

NDLEA Chairman, Ahmadu Giade, said the agency would intensify efforts in arresting other persons connected with the shipment.

He said, “Efforts are ongoing to identify and apprehend other persons connected with the case. The NDLEA will not relent in its efforts to prevent drugs from coming in and out of the country.”