80-Year-Old Woman Arrested as NDLEA Uncovers Drugs Hidden in Moimoi Sachets and Canned Foods

In a shocking development, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has arrested an 80-year-old woman in Calabar, Cross River State, for her alleged role in a drug trafficking network operating across Nigeria. Eyes Of Lagos reports,

The suspect, Mrs. Grace Ekpeme, was taken into custody on Saturday, July 26, 2025, during a targeted operation at her residence on Edet-Nsa Street, Base Site, Calabar South, following actionable intelligence.

NDLEA Finds Skunk and Imported Narcotics Concealed in Food Packaging

During the raid, NDLEA operatives discovered over three kilograms of skunk, a highly potent form of cannabis, in the possession of the elderly woman. The agency also uncovered cleverly disguised drug consignments smuggled into the country using moimoi sachets and canned food products — an increasingly common method used by drug syndicates to evade detection.

The intercepted drugs included:

• Colorado – a synthetic and highly dangerous variant of cannabis.

• Canadian Loud – a premium-grade narcotic smuggled from overseas.

These discoveries were part of a larger nationwide crackdown by the NDLEA aimed at dismantling sophisticated drug distribution networks that operate under the radar using deceptive packaging and courier routes.

NDLEA Vows Zero Tolerance – Age No Barrier to Prosecution

Speaking on the arrests, an NDLEA spokesperson emphasized the agency’s commitment to fighting drug crimes at all levels.

“This operation reflects our unwavering resolve to combat drug trafficking, regardless of the age, gender, or social standing of the suspects involved,” the agency stated.

Mrs. Ekpeme is currently being held in custody, and will be formally charged after investigations are concluded. She is expected to face trial alongside other suspects arrested during the coordinated operation.

Nationwide Drug Enforcement Push Continues

This arrest adds to a growing list of high-profile busts made by the NDLEA in recent months, as Nigeria’s drug enforcement agency intensifies its mission to disrupt trafficking operations nationwide. Citizens are urged to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity in their communities to relevant authorities.