NDLEA officers arrested 39-year-old Shodunke Yetunde Simbiat on December 9, 2025. They caught her at her home on 31 Onasanya Street in Surulere, Lagos. Officers searched the residence and found 23.50 kilograms of cocaine.
Additionally, the drugs hid in blocks inside a black suitcase. Simbiat kept the suitcase in her children’s room. The cocaine’s street value exceeded N5 billion.
Background of the Syndicate
Simbiat played a key role as a stash keeper in a trans-border drug trafficking group. The syndicate operated across borders. She went underground after NDLEA busted the group’s leaders in May 2024.
Furthermore, the leaders included the couple Bolanle Lookman Dauda and Olayinka Toheebat Dauda. Officers arrested them on May 25, 2024, at Ibiye along the Lagos-Badagry Expressway. They tried to smuggle cocaine to Ghana.
Related Seizures
During that operation, NDLEA seized 47.5 kilograms of cocaine from the couple at the border. They also found 10 more kilograms at their home in Agbara, Ogun State. The total reached 57.5 kilograms. Meanwhile, intelligence led to Simbiat’s location. She admitted owning the recent cocaine haul.
Authorities now examine her connections to suppliers. They aim to dismantle the larger network. In addition, forensic teams analyze the cocaine for origins.
NDLEA’s Commitment
NDLEA spokesman Femi Babafemi shared details of the arrest. Chairman Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa praised the team. He urged vigilance during the festive season.
Mrs. Johnson faces charges of drug trafficking and endangerment. If convicted, she could spend decades in prison. Meanwhile police urge citizens to report suspicious behavior.
This bust serves as a warning. It shows how criminals exploit ordinary settings. Ultimately vigilance helps combat such threats effectively.
In conclusion, these actions disrupt drug networks. NDLEA protects communities from illegal substances. The public should report suspicious activities.
