Troops Intercept Suspected Drug Trafficker, Recover 235kg of Cannabis Along Lokoja–Abuja Highway
Troops of the 176 Guards Battalion of the Nigerian Army have intercepted a suspected drug trafficker and recovered a large consignment of suspected Cannabis Sativa during an operation along the Lokoja–Abuja Highway.
The arrest was made during a routine snap check conducted by troops deployed in Abaji at about 7:50 p.m. on June 22, 2026.
According to military sources, the operation led to the interception of a white Toyota Avalon XLS bearing Kaduna State registration number BNG-326BN, which was travelling from Okitipupa in Ondo State to Abuja.
A thorough search of the vehicle reportedly uncovered 273 compressed parcels of suspected Cannabis Sativa with a combined weight of approximately 235 kilograms.
The driver, identified as 30-year-old Ayodeji John, was immediately arrested and taken into custody for questioning.
Preliminary investigations reportedly linked the suspect to the transportation of the illicit substance, prompting the military to hand him over, alongside the recovered exhibits, to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) on June 23 for further investigation and possible prosecution.
Military authorities said the operation reflects the continued commitment of security forces to disrupting drug trafficking networks and preventing criminal elements from operating freely across the country.
The operation was completed without any casualties or security incidents.
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