The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has arrested a businessman for allegedly trafficking 5.3 kilograms of tramadol pills concealed inside mannequins and bound for Cameroon.
The suspect, Ani Onyebuchi Romans, was intercepted on January 9, 2026, along the Oron–Ibaka Road in Oron Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State while travelling towards the border. NDLEA operatives, acting on intelligence, discovered the illicit drugs carefully hidden inside two full-body mannequins in his possession.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspect allegedly purchased the tramadol in Onitsha, Anambra State, and intended to smuggle it across the Nigerian border for sale in Cameroon. He reportedly claimed to be a resident of Cameroon.
The NDLEA said the arrest underscores its renewed commitment to intelligence-led operations and heightened surveillance along major highways and border routes to curb cross-border drug trafficking.
In a statement, the agency reiterated its warning to drug traffickers that it will continue to strengthen enforcement efforts nationwide, adding that suspects arrested in connection with drug offences will be prosecuted in accordance with the law.
The seizure is part of a broader nationwide crackdown by the NDLEA, which has recorded multiple arrests and drug recoveries across several states in recent operations. Visit www.jocomms.com for more news.