Nigeria NDLEA Seizes Cocaine on MV San Antonio
Analysis based on 11 articles · First reported Dec 17, 2025 · Last updated Dec 17, 2025
The successful interception of large cocaine shipments by Nigeria — National Drug Law Enforcement Agency demonstrates increased law enforcement effectiveness in Nigeria, potentially deterring illicit drug trafficking through the region. This could positively impact Nigeria's reputation and reduce associated risks for legitimate maritime trade, though the continued targeting by cartels indicates ongoing challenges.
The Nigeria — National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) secured a Federal High Court order in Lagos to detain the merchant vessel United States — San Antonio, its captain Oleksandr Trofymov, and 20 other crew members. This action follows the seizure of 25.5 kilograms of cocaine found in the vessel's hatch, which arrived from Brazil at the Apapa seaport on December 6, 2025. The crew members are of diverse nationalities, including Russian, Filipino, Ukrainian, and Azerbaijani. This incident comes weeks after a similar interception by Nigeria — National Drug Law Enforcement Agency of another vessel, MV Nord Bosporus, also from Brazil, carrying 20 kilograms of cocaine. Mohammed Buba Marwa, Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of Nigeria — National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, reaffirmed the agency's commitment to combating international drug cartels and preventing Nigeria from becoming a drug hub. Justice Frida Nkemakonam Ogazi granted the 14-day detention order for United States — San Antonio and its crew, pending further investigation and the filing of criminal charges.
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