Airport Officials Arrested for Planting Drugs in Pilgrims’ Bags

The targeted passengers were primarily pilgrims embarking on religious journeys, many of whom were completely unaware that their bags had been tampered with. The NDLEA described the act as both criminal and deeply immoral, noting that it not only endangers innocent travellers but also tarnishes Nigeria’s international reputation.

Speaking on the incident, NDLEA spokespersons confirmed that those arrested are currently in custody and undergoing interrogation. The agency has vowed to prosecute all suspects involved, stressing that no one would be spared in the fight against drug trafficking and aviation-related crimes.

NDLEA Chairman, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (Retd.) reiterated the agency’s zero-tolerance stance on drug trafficking, warning that anyone regardless of position or connection  found guilty of compromising Nigeria’s airports will face the full weight of the law.

The arrests have sparked fears among Nigerians, particularly those traveling for religious pilgrimages such as Hajj and Umrah. Innocent travellers risk being wrongfully implicated in international drug cases if airport staff secretly insert drugs into their bags.

Aviation and security experts have urged travellers to be extra vigilant during baggage check-ins and to demand proper sealing and inspection of their luggage in their presence. Calls are also being made for airlines and handling companies to improve oversight mechanisms to prevent such criminal acts.

The management of SAHCO Plc has yet to release a comprehensive statement, but sources within the company hinted at an ongoing internal investigation. Industry stakeholders have expressed disappointment, stressing that the alleged involvement of aviation ground staff undermines passengers’ trust and poses a grave national security risk.

Analysts also warned that if not properly addressed, such scandals could affect Nigeria’s standing with international aviation regulators and foreign governments, potentially leading to stricter security checks for Nigerian travellers abroad.

Civil society groups, religious leaders, and human rights organisations have condemned the incident, describing it as a deliberate attempt to exploit innocent pilgrims for criminal gains. They are calling for transparent investigations, prosecution of culprits, and stronger measures to protect travellers.

Many have also urged the federal government to overhaul baggage handling procedures and introduce advanced security technologies at airports, including surveillance cameras, tamper-proof luggage tracking, and biometric verification systems.

The case is expected to serve as a litmus test for the Nigerian government’s ability to enforce accountability within the aviation sector. As investigations continue, public pressure is mounting for the swift prosecution of those found guilty.

For now, the incident stands as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities in Nigeria’s airport operations and the urgent need for reforms that guarantee both traveller safety and national integrity.

Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.