The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has apprehended Alhaji Suleiman Ganiu Aremu, a wanted drug baron, after a two-year investigation. Aremu, also known as Barryshine, was linked to four foiled attempts to export cocaine to Saudi Arabia and Qatar through the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos.
The NDLEA’s investigation revealed that Aremu was involved in recruiting drug mules and financing their travel expenses. He was arrested on August 26, 2024, and his bank accounts linked to the cartel were blocked.
Aremu claimed to be a property developer and hotel manager, but the NDLEA discovered properties traced to him, including two houses and a hotel in Lagos.
The Federal High Court in Lagos has granted an application for Aremu’s detention to be extended for 30 days and has declared two of his associates, Oluwafemi Akande Abidoye and Olanrewaju Abdullahi Ramon, wanted.
NDLEA Chairman Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa commended the officers involved in the investigation, stating that the arrest demonstrates that the law will always catch up with those involved in criminal activities, no matter how long it takes.
