The Federal High Court in Lagos has ordered the continued detention of the Brazilian vessel MV San Antonio and its 21 crew members as investigations into a major cocaine trafficking operation deepen.
Justice Friday Nkemakonam Ogazi delivered the ruling following an application by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), granting an additional 14 days for authorities to conclude inquiries into the alleged transnational drug syndicate.
The vessel was intercepted by the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Apapa Area Command, shortly after berthing from Brazil on December 6, 2025. Customs officers discovered 25.5 kilograms of cocaine concealed in 24 parcels within five bags of sugar.
The discovery led to the immediate arrest of the ship’s master, Trofymov Oleksandr, and 20 other crew members of various nationalities.
Following established procedures, the NCS handed over the vessel, the seized narcotics, and the suspects to the NDLEA for further investigation and prosecution. Justice Ogazi had earlier authorized the initial detention on December 12, 2025.
The NDLEA informed the court that the case’s complexity and international scope, including connections to Nigerian operatives, necessitated extended detention.
The court has adjourned the matter to January 13 for an update on investigation progress.
Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba, Customs Area Controller, Apapa Command, described the seizure as proof of strengthened intelligence and inter-agency collaboration.
He warned that the operation sends a strong message to would-be traffickers and noted the vessel’s travel through high-risk drug routes, including Honduras and Guatemala.