NDLEA seizes 25.5kg of cocaine aboard Brazilian vessel MV San Antonio, detaining ship and 21 crew members pending investigation in Lagos

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has secured a Federal High Court order in Lagos to detain the merchant vessel MV San Antonio, its captain, Trofymov Oleksandr, and 20 crew members following the seizure of 25.5 kilograms of cocaine at the Apapa seaport.

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NDLEA spokesman Femi Babafemi said the consignment was discovered on 6 December 2025 after operatives acting on credible intelligence intercepted the Brazilian vessel.

“After the full discharge of cargo, a total of 21 crew members of diverse nationalities, including Russia, Philippines, Ukraine, and Azerbaijan, were taken into NDLEA custody along with the drug exhibits,” he stated.

The detainees include Stoychev Sergiy, Bobrov Maksim, Stupnytsky Sergiy, Bitinev Aleksei, Novruzov Teymur, Sosnov Oleg, Bondar Ihor, Klymenko Oleh, Cala Michael De Jesus, Jamir and Julfikhar Jacusalem, among others.

In line with international legal protocols, NDLEA filed an ex parte application at the Federal High Court, Lagos, which was granted by Justice Frida Nkemakonam Ogazi.

The court ordered the detention of the vessel and crew for 14 days pending investigation and the filing of criminal charges. The matter has been adjourned to 29 December 2025.

Chairman and CEO of NDLEA, Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa (rtd), said the seizure reinforces the agency’s commitment to preventing drug syndicates from establishing a foothold in Nigeria.

He commended officers of the Apapa Strategic Command for their operational success and highlighted ongoing collaborations with local and international partners to combat illicit drug trafficking.

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This seizure follows a similar interception of 20 kilograms of cocaine aboard the MV Nord Bosporus from Santos, Brazil, on 16 November 2025 at the same seaport.