NDLEA Arrests Italy-Bound Businessman With Cocaine Hidden in Shoes at Lagos Airport
Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have arrested a 38-year-old businessman, Philip Tunde, at Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, over 4.80 kilogrammes of cocaine allegedly hidden in shoes and travelling bags. The agency says he was picked up on Sunday, September 27, 2026, while preparing to board a flight to Milan, Italy. The allegations come from the NDLEA, and Tunde has not been convicted of any offence.
What the NDLEA says
According to a statement by NDLEA spokesman Femi Babafemi, Tunde was arrested at the joint screening point of Terminal 2 as he prepared to board a Royal Air Maroc flight. Sahara Reporters carried the statement on October 4, 2026.
Babafemi said a search of his luggage led to the recovery of 16 parcels of a white powdery substance hidden in the soles of eight pairs of trainers and canvas shoes. A further 195 wraps were allegedly concealed in the railings of four travelling bags.
The agency said the substances tested positive for cocaine and weighed 4.80kg in total.
Several outlets, including The Sun, Guardian Nigeria and P.M. News, carried the same account of the arrest.
What the suspect reportedly told investigators
During interrogation, Tunde reportedly told operatives that he paid ₦16 million in cash for the cocaine in the shoes. He allegedly said the consignment in the bags was meant for delivery to his partner in Italy.
He also reportedly said he raised the ₦16 million from compensation he received after an injury at a plastic manufacturing company in Italy. According to the NDLEA, he said he lost the tips of two fingers in the incident.
These are claims attributed to Tunde by the agency. They have not been independently verified, and the sources reviewed do not include a statement from him or a lawyer.
Timeline:
- Sunday, September 27: Arrest at Terminal 2, MMIA, per the NDLEA.
- Sunday, October 4: NDLEA publicises the arrest in a statement.
Background and wider operations
The arrest was reported alongside other NDLEA seizures. The agency said it intercepted consignments of Loud, a strong strain of cannabis, and codeine-based cough syrup worth more than ₦5 billion at the Apapa, Tincan Island and Onne ports.
NDLEA chairman Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (retd.) commended the officers involved and urged them to sustain intelligence-driven efforts against trafficking networks, Sahara Reporters reported.
This is not the first reported case of cocaine hidden in footwear at the airport. In July 2024, the NDLEA said it arrested a Spain-based businessman with 1.20kg of cocaine concealed in sandals at the same terminal, according to AllAfrica.
Reactions and what happens next
Tunde has not been convicted, and the NDLEA’s account remains an allegation until proven in court. The sources reviewed do not say whether he has been charged or when he will appear in court.
Any charge, court appearance or response from Tunde or his representatives will be added here when confirmed.
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