The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency arrested a 43-year-old makeup artist, Adekoya Adebukonla Mary, at Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Ikeja, Lagos, on June 16, 2025. Authorities found 2.2 kilograms of cocaine concealed in the walls of her suitcase. Adekoya claimed she was traveling to India for fibroid surgery. Still, the agency’s spokesperson, Femi Babafemi, stated she was apprehended while boarding a Qatar Airways flight to India via Doha. Acting on reliable intelligence, officers monitored her, allowed her to check in her luggage, and arrested her before she boarded. A search revealed two large parcels of cocaine hidden in her bag. Adekoya admitted she undertook the trip for financial gain, despite presenting it as a medical journey. Further investigation showed she was recruited and funded by Akeem Ayinde Adekanbi, a drug baron who remains at large. Adekanbi owns the Rockford Hotel in Sango, Ogun State, and resides in Igbe Laara, Igbogbo, Ikorodu, Lagos. The agency released a video of the incident, which was shared via social media.
