Crime

China-Based Businessman, Two Angolans Excrete 236 Cocaine Wraps At Kano Airport

Published by Akinwale Fakinlede on February 15th, 2026.

Operatives at the international wing of Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport have intercepted a major drug trafficking attempt involving a China-based businessman and two Angolan nationals who collectively excreted 236 wraps of cocaine after their arrest.

According to authorities, the suspects were apprehended during routine screening procedures upon arrival in Kano. Their behavior reportedly raised suspicion among security personnel, prompting further checks and eventual detention for medical observation.

Suspicious Arrival

Airport officials disclosed that the three men had arrived on an international flight and were subjected to enhanced screening measures after inconsistencies were noticed in their travel patterns and documentation. The China-based businessman, identified as a frequent traveler between Asia and West Africa, allegedly appeared visibly uneasy during questioning.

After initial scans suggested possible ingestion of foreign objects, the suspects were placed under close monitoring by anti-narcotics officers. Over the course of several hours, medical supervision confirmed that the trio had swallowed multiple drug pellets intended for illicit distribution.

236 Wraps Recovered

Authorities revealed that a total of 236 cocaine wraps were excreted by the suspects. Preliminary analysis indicated that the substance tested positive for cocaine and was carefully packaged to evade detection during transit.

Investigators believe the consignment was destined for distribution within Nigeria or potentially onward trafficking to other markets. The street value of the seized narcotics is estimated to run into millions of naira, underscoring the scale of the attempted operation.

Ongoing Investigation

Officials of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) confirmed that a full investigation is underway to determine the source of the drugs and identify possible accomplices within and outside the country.

A spokesperson for the agency emphasized that drug trafficking syndicates are increasingly adopting high-risk smuggling methods, including internal concealment, in an effort to bypass security systems. However, enhanced surveillance technology and intelligence-sharing have significantly improved detection rates at major entry points.

Legal Consequences

Under Nigerian law, trafficking hard drugs such as cocaine carries severe penalties, including lengthy prison terms. The three suspects are expected to face prosecution once investigations are concluded and formal charges are filed.

Authorities reiterated their commitment to curbing international drug trafficking and warned that airports across Nigeria remain under strict surveillance. The seizure at Kano airport adds to a growing list of interceptions highlighting the country’s role as both a transit and target destination in global narcotics networks.

As investigations continue, officials say further details will be made public in due course.