Massive Haul Of Laughing Gas Seized By NDLEA In Lagos & Imo States!

Published on July 14, 2023

Massive Haul Of Laughing Gas Seized By NDLEA In Lagos & Imo States!

In a groundbreaking operation, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has successfully intercepted an astounding 64,863.5 kilograms of nitrous oxide, commonly known as ‘laughing gas‘, at the Apapa seaport in Lagos and in Imo states. This significant seizure comes as a result of targeted intelligence and a nationwide crackdown on the illegal sale and usage of this recreational substance.

According to a statement released by NDLEA spokesperson Femi Babafemi, the recovery of the ‘laughing gas’ was made just 24 hours after the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (retd), issued the directive to clamp down on the abuse and illegal trade of nitrous oxide.

At the Apapa seaport, NDLEA operatives carried out a meticulous search of two containers marked MSKU 7626856 and MSKU 7689448, suspected to contain cartons of nitrous oxide and plastic pressure release nozzles imported from China. The joint examination conducted by NDLEA officers, Customs Service personnel, and other stakeholders revealed a staggering discovery. A total of 522 cartons, holding 16,366 packages weighing 64,852 kilograms, were found within the containers. Alongside the ‘laughing gas’ packages, paraphernalia for recreational use were also recovered.

Following this breakthrough, the authorities swiftly apprehended the importer of the consignment, 30-year-old Stephen Eze, and his agent, Michael Chukwuma. They are currently in custody to aid further investigation into this case.

In another remarkable operation, NDLEA operatives on patrol along the Owerri-Onitsha expressway in Imo State intercepted three cartons containing 18 canisters of ‘laughing gas’ weighing 11.5 kilograms. The shipment was en route to Port Harcourt, Rivers State. In a swift follow-up operation conducted in the stadium road area of Elekahia, Port Harcourt, the owner of the seized consignment, 24-year-old Tonye Kalio, was apprehended.

NDLEA spokesperson Femi Babafemi commended the proactive and swift actions of the officers and men involved in the Apapa Port and Imo State Command operations. He also emphasized that the nationwide crackdown on the sale and usage of nitrous oxide will persist under the directive of Chairman Marwa. The objective is to protect young Nigerians from the devastating effects of substance abuse.

This latest feat by the NDLEA showcases their unwavering commitment to tackling drug-related issues and ensuring the safety and well-being of citizens. The resounding message to those involved in the illegal trade of ‘laughing gas’ is clear: the authorities will not relent in their efforts to curb this dangerous trend and safeguard the Nigerian population from its harmful consequences.