The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has arrested a suspected key figure in an international cocaine trafficking network while attempting to leave Nigeria, following an investigation into a 184.5kg cocaine shipment intercepted in Lagos.

The NDLEA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), disclosed the development while briefing journalists in Lagos on Tuesday, August 18, 2026.

According to Marwa, the investigation began after operatives intercepted 184.50kg of cocaine concealed in a consignment being processed for export through a courier logistics company in Lagos. The shipment was allegedly intended for international distribution, with the cartel reportedly hoping to make as much as N39 billion from the consignment.

Following the seizure, Marwa directed the establishment of a Special Investigation Team to identify those behind the shipment and uncover the wider network involved.

Working with the management of the courier company, NDLEA investigators reportedly traced a network of intermediary companies and individuals involved in processing and moving the cocaine.

Two key suspects were subsequently arrested, alongside other persons linked to the investigation.

One of them, Lawal Mujab Kehinde, a staff member of the logistics company through which the cocaine was processed, was allegedly found to have maintained a direct relationship with the cartel’s Nigerian coordinator.

Investigators reportedly established that Kehinde packaged and processed consignments for the syndicate before arranging their shipment to the United Kingdom, other parts of Europe and Asia. He was allegedly paid in cash for his role.

The second suspect, Afolabi Kazeem Michael, popularly known online as “KC Luxury,” was identified by the NDLEA as an alleged Nigerian arrowhead of the cartel.

The agency said Michael operated publicly as a social media influencer and businessman dealing in gold, jewellery and luxury goods, allegedly using his glamorous public image to conceal his involvement in the cocaine trade.

According to the NDLEA, the suspected trafficking network operated along a route linking South America, Nigeria, the United Kingdom, other European destinations and Asia.

The agency said investigations are ongoing to uncover the full structure of the cartel and identify other individuals connected to the alleged international cocaine trafficking operation.