Three Nigerian pilgrims detained in Jeddah on suspicion of drug trafficking have been released following weeks of diplomatic and investigation activities.
The release of Mrs. Maryam Hussain Abdullahi, Mrs. Abdullahi Bahijja Aminu, and Mr. Abdulhamid Saddieq came after nearly a month in Saudi custody. They were apprehended after bags labeled with their names were found to contain illegal substances, although the trio had no knowledge of the crime. They had traveled on an Ethiopian Airlines flight ET940 departing Kano on August 6, 2025.
Following complaints from the families, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) launched an investigation that uncovered the smuggling operation at Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport. The probe identified Mohammed Ali Abubakar, also known as Bello Karama, as the ringleader along with three accomplices, including airline personnel.
Armed with evidence clearing the three Nigerians of wrongdoing and incriminating the syndicate, top NDLEA officials engaged Saudi narcotics authorities. The collaboration between the agencies resulted in the gradual release of the detainees starting September 14.
NDLEA spokesman Femi Babafemi explained that the agency’s chairperson, Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (retired), carried out direct diplomatic talks with his Saudi counterparts.
Authorities as a result of this event vow to maintain vigilance and enhance safeguards to prevent innocent travelers from becoming victims of criminal schemes.
Following complaints from the families, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) launched an investigation that uncovered the smuggling operation at Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport. The probe identified Mohammed Ali Abubakar, also known as Bello Karama, as the ringleader along with three accomplices, including airline personnel.
Armed with evidence clearing the three Nigerians of wrongdoing and incriminating the syndicate, top NDLEA officials engaged Saudi narcotics authorities. The collaboration between the agencies resulted in the gradual release of the detainees starting September 14.
NDLEA spokesman Femi Babafemi explained that the agency’s chairperson, Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (retired), carried out direct diplomatic talks with his Saudi counterparts.
Authorities as a result of this event vow to maintain vigilance and enhance safeguards to prevent innocent travelers from becoming victims of criminal schemes.
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