The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has arrested an automobile spare parts dealer, Levi Ubodoeze, for attempting to export two kilograms of cocaine concealed in vehicle propellers to Angola.
In a statement on Sunday, NDLEA spokesperson Femi Babafemi said operatives launched a three-week manhunt for Mr Ubodoeze before his arrest.
“Following the seizure of the cocaine consignment at a logistics company in Aspanda, Trade Fair Complex, Ojo, Lagos, on 21st February 2025, swift contacts were made with Angolan authorities, leading to the arrest of the intended recipient. This, in turn, helped identify the sender,” Mr Babafemi stated.
NDLEA operatives tracked Mr Ubodoeze to his residence on Ago Palace Way, Isolo, Lagos, on 6th March, where he was intercepted in a KIA Sport Utility Vehicle while attempting to flee.
A search of the vehicle uncovered 75.5 kilograms of phenacetin—commonly used as a cutting agent for cocaine—packaged and branded as semolina. A digital scale for weighing illicit drugs was also recovered from his house.
Mr Ubodoeze reportedly admitted to dealing in cocaine while operating as a spare parts dealer at Ladipo Market, Mushin, Lagos. He told NDLEA officials that his Angolan contact alerted him upon being arrested, prompting his attempted escape.
