A routine flight to London turned into a high-stakes drug bust at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport when a 67-year-old grandmother was caught with 13 kilograms of cocaine ingeniously disguised as a bunch of fresh plantains.
Narcotic agents intercepted the elderly caregiver just moments before she could board her international flight, unraveling a highly sophisticated smuggling plot that went far deeper than a taste of home.
An Elaborate Disguise
According to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), the multi-million-naira drug consignment was meticulously packaged to evade airport security. Officers conducting a thorough search of the suspect’s luggage discovered 31 large wraps of cocaine that had been masterfully molded and colored to look like real, fresh plantain hands.
The fake plantain peels were packed alongside genuine food items in her bags to blend in, but the unusual weight and texture aroused the suspicion of eagle-eyed narcotic officers. Upon closer inspection, the “plantains” were sliced open, revealing a total of 13 kilograms of pure cocaine hidden inside.
Suspect Confesses
Following the discovery, the elderly suspect was immediately taken into custody. In her official statement to law enforcement, she admitted full ownership of the recovered illicit substances.
The NDLEA has launched a comprehensive investigation to trace the syndicate behind the sophisticated smuggling attempt, as well as the local suppliers who manufactured the deceptive packaging.
The grandmother is currently being held in custody and is expected to be arraigned in a federal court as soon as investigations are concluded.
