In a determined effort to combat drug-related activities, the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) BEECROFT has successfully apprehended 27 suspected drug peddlers during a well-coordinated raid in Gidan Drama, situated along Malu Road in Apapa, Lagos State. The operation, executed on Saturday, April 5, 2025, underscores the Navy's commitment to curbing the spread and use of illicit drugs, particularly among Nigerian youths.

The raid was carried out following credible intelligence received by NNS BEECROFT regarding the presence of suspected drug peddlers in the Gidan Drama area. Commodore Paul Ponfa Nimmyel, Commander of NNS BEECROFT, authorized the deployment of Operation MESA to address the reported activities. Captain Idongesit Udoessien, the Executive Officer, represented Commodore Nimmyel during the operation.

The operation resulted in the apprehension of 27 individuals, comprising 24 males and 3 females, along with the confiscation of various hard drugs and illicit substances. The arrested female suspects were identified as Ajike Rahime, aged 20; Padipe Olamiposin, also 20; and Ayike Yusuf, aged 21. The male suspects include Samaili Ibrahim (21), Yusuf Danjuma (30), Hamisu Sanusi (34), Odi Yahaya (20), Adamu Umaru (23), Friday Ochoba (45), Michael Istwuo (25), Eze Frank (40), Joshua Esua (20), and Daus John (19). The remaining male suspects are Musa Andrawus (34), Nwakaeze David (21), Abubakar Shamsu (24), Elisha Mark (18), Mohammed Umar (22), Bashir Abubakar (30), Nafiu Hassan (35), Akombi Dele Yusuf (34), Abdullahi Yusuf (23), Abba Usman (22), Ukasha Alhassan (29), Abdullazeez Yusuf (18), Joshua Emmanuel (21), and Justice Obasa (32).

Captain Udoessien emphasized the significance of the operation, stating that the arrest of the 27 suspects and the seizure of illicit substances demonstrate NNS BEECROFT's unwavering commitment to curtailing the spread and use of illicit drugs among youths. He further highlighted the detrimental effects of drug use on young people's health and the threat it poses to national security.

Following the successful raid, the 27 suspects and the confiscated items were handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further investigation and necessary legal action. This collaborative effort between the Nigerian Navy and the NDLEA underscores the importance of inter-agency cooperation in combating drug-related crimes and ensuring the safety and well-being of Nigerian communities.