The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency has intercepted an attempt to smuggle cocaine hidden inside traditional Nigerian attire—specifically, male caps known as “fila” and female headwraps called “gele”.
This discovery was revealed by the agency’s spokesperson, Femi Babafemi, on Sunday through his official X (formerly Twitter) handle.
He cautioned Nigerians to be wary of accepting traditional outfits for delivery abroad, warning that such items may be used to transport illicit substances.
“If anyone asks you to help carry aso-ebi fila or gele as part of your luggage to Europe or anywhere else, this latest seizure by our operatives should make you think twice,” Babafemi posted, alongside a video and photograph of the seized materials.
The traditional items, often worn at weddings and celebrations, had been creatively stuffed with the illicit drug, making it difficult to detect without proper screening. According to Babafemi, the traffickers used the cultural significance of these garments to mask criminal activity.
This latest bust comes shortly after another major interception by the agency, in which officers uncovered a large compartment built into the belly of an oil tanker, allegedly designed for drug distribution across the country.
NDLEA Chairman, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (retd.), has consistently emphasized the agency’s zero-tolerance stance on drug trafficking and continues to push for preventive measures. “We are committed to dismantling every tactic employed by drug syndicates, no matter how subtle or culturally disguised,” Marwa stated in a previous briefing.
The agency urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities. “Drug trafficking is a serious offense with grave implications, both for the individual and national security. We all must play a role in combating this menace,” Babafemi added.
The NDLEA reiterated its commitment to tightening checks at airports and borders, as drug traffickers continue to devise new concealment methods.
