The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), has apprehended a 38-year-old woman, Rashidat Abdulkarim, for attempting to smuggle 2.04kg Indian hemp to South Africa. The hemp was said to have been concealed in cartons of Knorr seasoning cubes.

The NDLEA airport commander, Mr. Hamza Umar, said that the Indian hemp was seized at the cargo section of Nigeria Aviation Handling Company.

“The seizure was made during routine screening of goods at the cargo section. During a search, 2.04kg of cannabis was found to be concealed in a carton of Knor Maggi seasoning.”

“Other items in the luggage were local textiles and herbal medicines. The consignor was immediately arrested following the discovery of the cannabis,” Umar said.

According to a statement by NDLEA spokesperson, Mr. Mitchell Ofoyeju, during investigation, Rashidat accused her husband who lives in South Africa of implicating her.

Reports say the suspect, mother of three, sells female shoes and hand bags. She expressed shock over the claims that cannabis was found in the consignment sent to her by the husband.

“I am in shock and pain that my husband is behind my problem. My husband sent N28, 000 to me to buy locally made textiles. He also told me that one man will bring food seasoning and herbal medicines to me.

“I bought the textiles and added it to the seasoning the man bought. On getting to the airport, drug was found inside the carton of seasoning. I am so sad and disappointed,” Rashidat said.

The Lagos state indigene speaking further, said, “I struggle to fend for myself and my three children. My eldest child is only thirteen years. Even before my husband travelled to South Africa, he left me with the upkeep of the family. I have suffered so much financial neglect.

“I have never smuggled drugs in my life. He has done the worst,” she sobbed.

NDLEA Chairman, Ahmadu Giade, has promised to carry out detailed investigation, adding that any other person involved would be arrested and prosecuted.