Lagos, Nigeria – A Federal High Court convicted 10 Filipino sailors and their vessel MV Nord Bosporus, imposing $6 million and N1.1 million fines for smuggling 20kg of cocaine through Apapa Port.
Justice Ayokunle Faji ruled on March 18, 2026, after NDLEA seized the drugs from Brazil on November 16, 2025. Nigeria intensifies port security in West Africa’s trade gateway.
The crew faced four counts under the NDLEA Act, entering a plea bargain. The ship pays N100,000 plus $5.35 million restitution. Principal officers owe $100,000 each; others $50,000 alongside N100,000 fines each.
Okay News reports NDLEA’s victory statement. The agency called it “a resounding victory for the rule of law and a powerful testament to the renewed vigour of the NDLEA.” Chairman Mohamed Buba Marwa said the fine warns cartels that Nigeria’s waters aren’t safe for trafficking.
Apapa, handling most imports, sees rising busts. Customs grabbed N3.39 billion codeine and N6.38 billion expired drugs recently. A prior Thai crew paid $4.36 million for 32.9kg cocaine.
NDLEA shifts from seizures to hitting finances. The rapid trial—from bust to plea to fine—shows enforcement speed. Foreign nationals fuel maritime routes from South America.
Ports gain scanners and intelligence amid smuggling spikes. Marwa ties it to broader opioid crackdowns, like a N6.7 billion Lagos stash. Nigeria deters syndicates through heavy penalties.
