According to the Nigerian drug enforcement agency, it appears to have produced the largest cocaine seizure in the nation’s history.
1.8 tons of cocaine, estimated to be valued over $278 million (£243 million), were found in a warehouse in the Ikorodu neighborhood, northeast of Lagos’ commercial center.
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency reported that the substances were kept in 13 drums and 10 travel bags (NDLEA).
Four Nigerian guys, ages 69, 65, and two 53s, were detained in various locations in Lagos.
In what the agency said as a “highly organized and intelligence led operation” spread over two days, a foreign national was also detailed.
According to NDLEA, the individuals intended to sell the drugs to customers in Europe, Asia, and other continents.
Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa (Retd), the agency’s commander, complimented his officers for cooperating with their American counterparts during the operation.
He was cited as saying, “The bust represents a historical blow to the drug cartels and a powerful message that they’ll all go down if they fail to see that the game has changed.”