Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency have arrested a South African woman found with 36.65kg of cocaine at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos.

The operation marks another major breakthrough in the agencys sustained fight against drug trafficking at the nations airports.

The arrest was disclosed on Saturday by Sahara Reporters which published an image showing the suspect standing behind several large parcels of cocaine neatly arranged on a table. The image highlights the scale of the seizure and the method of concealment attempted by the trafficker.

According to the report, the woman was intercepted by vigilant NDLEA officers during routine passenger screening at the international wing of the airport. The officers flagged her luggage after noticing suspicious content which upon thorough search turned out to be a large consignment of cocaine.

She was immediately taken into custody while the seized substance was documented as evidence. Authorities have commenced investigation to establish the origin of the drugs, the intended destination and whether she is part of a larger international trafficking syndicate operating through Nigerian airports.

The NDLEA has reiterated its resolve to intensify surveillance and intelligence gathering at all entry and exit points across the country. The agency said it will not relent in its efforts to ensure that Nigeria does not become a transit hub for illicit drug trafficking.

The latest seizure is expected to send a strong warning to drug traffickers who continue to attempt to use Nigerian airports for their illegal activities, as the agency has assured that all offenders will be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.