Operatives of the Nigeria Police Force under the Zone 2 Command have uncovered and dismantled a suspected drug trafficking ring operating in Lagos, seizing large quantities of cannabis strain known as “Canadian Loud” with an estimated street value of about ₦7.8 billion.
The operation, carried out in a residential apartment located within an estate in Mende, Maryland, Lagos, led to the arrest of several suspects, including the alleged leader of the network, 41-year-old Eke Henry Ifeanyi. Police confirmed that the illegal substances were recovered directly from his residence during the raid.
Authorities explained that the breakthrough followed an intelligence-led investigation that had been ongoing for several months, during which the suspects were placed under close surveillance before the final enforcement action was taken.
Speaking to journalists at the scene, the Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone 2, Olohundare Jimoh, stated that monitoring of the suspect began on May 19 before officers moved in to execute the arrest and search operation.
He revealed that during the raid, the prime suspect allegedly attempted to obstruct the operation by offering a ₦500 million bribe to the commander of the Special Protection Unit in an effort to delay the exercise and facilitate the relocation of the illicit drugs.
According to Jimoh, the offer was immediately rejected by the officer involved and was properly recorded as part of the investigation process, in line with police procedure and ethical standards.
The AIG further noted that the success of the operation demonstrated the effectiveness of intelligence-led policing being implemented by the force under the leadership of the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, emphasising the importance of specialised units such as the Special Protection Unit in rapid tactical response.
He explained that the operational framework ensures strong perimeter control during raids, reliance on sustained intelligence gathering, and strict adherence to professional conduct, including immediate reporting of any attempted bribery or interference.
Jimoh added that improved collaboration between tactical teams and divisional police formations had significantly enhanced the ability of the force to disrupt organised criminal and drug trafficking networks across Lagos State.
Reacting to the development, the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, described the operation as evidence that recent restructuring and redeployment of officers across Lagos and Ogun divisions are yielding positive results.
He stressed that effective policing must remain community-focused, with specialised units working closely alongside local divisional officers to improve intelligence sharing and operational efficiency on the ground.
The IGP also commended the professionalism displayed by the SPU commander who rejected the alleged ₦500 million bribe, stating that such conduct represents the standard expected across the force and helps to rebuild public confidence in law enforcement.
He further assured that his administration would continue to recognise officers who demonstrate integrity while ensuring accountability is strictly enforced within the system.
Police confirmed that all recovered exhibits have been properly documented and will be tendered in court as evidence during prosecution.
Meanwhile, the arrested suspects remain in custody as investigators continue efforts to track and apprehend other members of the wider drug trafficking network.
