Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have arrested a 30-year-old Italy-based businessman, identified as Joseph Cyril, at the Akanu Ibiam International Airport (AIIA), Enugu, for allegedly ingesting cocaine intended for trafficking to Europe.

Cyril was arrested on Sunday, August 2, 2026, during the outward clearance of passengers aboard Ethiopian Airlines flight ET930, according to the NDLEA.

The agency said the suspect was subjected to excretion observation after his arrest, during which he expelled 98 wraps of cocaine weighing 1.510 kilogrammes.

Suspect allegedly ingested cocaine in Awka

Preliminary investigations reportedly revealed that Cyril arrived in Nigeria from Italy on July 13 and allegedly ingested the drug at a hotel in Awka, Anambra State, before travelling to Enugu to board his flight to Europe.

In his statement to investigators, the suspect reportedly said he had been doing business in Italy for several years before agreeing to transport the consignment in exchange for €3,500.

He allegedly told investigators that he intended to use the payment to raise funds to relocate to Germany, where his family is based.

The NDLEA is expected to continue its investigation into the source of the cocaine and other individuals who may be connected to the alleged trafficking operation.

The agency has continued to intensify surveillance at airports and other entry and exit points as part of efforts to curb the trafficking of illicit drugs in and out of Nigeria.