Why Ethiopian Airlines tops the smugglers’ list in 2024
In 2024, Nigerian drug traffickers have frequently used Ethiopian Airlines, making it the preferred carrier for smuggling narcotics out of the country. A series of high-profile arrests by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has highlighted the alarming trend, exposing a network of smugglers who have consistently chosen this airline for their illicit activities.
The Trend
From January to August 2024, Ethiopian Airlines has been the focal point of multiple drug trafficking arrests, far surpassing other airlines operating in Nigeria. Records from the NDLEA indicate that traffickers have repeatedly attempted to use this airline to transport drugs to various international destinations, including Brazil, India, and the United States.
Key Arrests in 2024
Here are some significant cases:
Chibunna Patrick Umeibe and Emeka Alphonsus (January 19, 2024):
These suspects were apprehended at Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, after arriving from Addis Ababa on Ethiopian Airlines flight ET917. A substantial quantity of cocaine was seized from them.
Nwadu Ekene Christian (February 16, 2024):
Christian was arrested at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, after importing 649,300 capsules of Tramadol 225mg weighing 460.95kg from Pakistan via Addis Ababa on an Ethiopian Airlines flight.
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Onyeaghala Chidi (February 4, 2024):
Chidi was caught during the outward clearance of passengers at the Lagos airport with 500 grams of methamphetamine hidden inside three plastic hair relaxer containers. He was also booked on an Ethiopian Airlines flight to Brazil.
Ugochukwu Emmanuel (March 14, 2024):
The General Overseer of Christ Living Hope Church, Emmanuel was found carrying 54 sticks of drugs while on his way to a crusade in Nairobi, Kenya, aboard Ethiopian Airlines.
Why Ethiopian Airlines?
Ethiopian Airlines has become the airline of choice for these traffickers due to a combination of factors, including its extensive network of international routes, particularly to drug demand hotspots like Brazil, India, and the United States. Additionally, its hub in Addis Ababa provides a strategic gateway for traffickers to access multiple destinations with relative ease.
Conclusion
The NDLEA’s increased scrutiny of Ethiopian Airlines flights has led to numerous arrests, shedding light on the preferred smuggling routes of Nigerian drug traffickers. As the agency continues its efforts to combat drug trafficking, Ethiopian Airlines remains under the spotlight, raising questions about the broader implications for international air travel security.
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