The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) recently announced a significant development in its fight against drug trafficking. The agency’s operatives apprehended a notorious drug baron, Alhaji Suleiman Ganiu Aremu, also known as Barryshine, after being under surveillance for over two years.
Suleiman, the Managing Director/CEO of Barryshine Suleiman Nigeria Limited, came under the radar for his alleged involvement in four foiled attempts to export cocaine to Saudi Arabia and Qatar through the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos. The agency’s investigation revealed that he had been linked to several arrested drug couriers and associates involved in the criminal trade.
On Sunday, November 13, 2022, a shocking incident occurred that led to the arrest of a female passenger at the MMIA in possession of 400 grams of cocaine concealed inside female footwear. This alarming discovery sparked an investigation that uncovered startling connections to Abdullahi Olarenwaju Ramon, who was revealed to have hired the drug courier. Even more concerning was the revelation that the suspect’s flight tickets and travel expenses were linked to Alhaji Suleiman Ganiu Aremu.
After painstaking investigations and manhunts conducted by NDLEA operatives at the MMIA Strategic Command, Suleiman was eventually taken into custody on August 26, 2024. His arrest marked a significant victory for the agency in its relentless efforts to track down major players in drug trafficking operations.
In light of these developments, Justice Dipeolu Deinde Isaac of the Federal High Court granted an application by NDLEA for an extension of Suleiman’s detention and declared his two associates wanted. This decision reflects a pivotal step towards holding individuals accountable for their involvement in illicit activities that pose serious threats to public health and safety.
Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), commended the officers and men involved in this operation. He emphasized that this success demonstrates that no one involved in criminal trade can evade justice indefinitely. By persistently pursuing leads and conducting thorough investigations over an extended period, law enforcement agencies are sending a clear message — they will not rest until those responsible for fueling drug addiction are brought to justice.
The apprehension of Alhaji Suleiman Ganiu Aremu is a testament to NDLEA’s unwavering commitment to combating drug trafficking activities within Nigeria and beyond its borders. This milestone achievement serves as a reminder that no individual or organization will be immune from facing consequences when it comes to undermining public safety through the illicit drug trade.
