News
Ex-Nigerian footballer Segun Hunkarin arrested for cocaine trafficking at Lagos airport
By Dayo Awoniyi
A former Nigerian international footballer, Segun George Hunkarin, has been arrested by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) alongside his associate, businessman Ntoruka Emmanuel Chinedu, for attempting to smuggle cocaine into the country through Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos.
According to NDLEA officials, the arrest took place on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, after Chinedu arrived from Turkey via Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. During routine checks, operatives discovered 37 wraps of cocaine weighing 800 grams hidden in his carry-on luggage.
Chinedu, a frequent traveler known for transporting goods between Turkey and Nigeria, was taken into custody immediately.
Subsequent investigations led agents to Hunkarin, who was found waiting at the airport car park to receive the consignment.
Hunkarin, who previously played professional football in Brazil, confessed to having trafficked drugs twice from Brazil to Ethiopia during his playing career. However, he claimed this was his first attempt involving Nigeria.
NDLEA operatives confirmed that intelligence and surveillance helped identify Hunkarin as the intended recipient of the illicit drugs. He was arrested at the scene without incident.
The agency stated that this arrest underscores its commitment to curbing drug trafficking, regardless of the individuals involved.
“No one is above the law,” an NDLEA spokesperson said. “This case is a reminder that all offenders, regardless of their status or background, will face justice.”
Investigations are ongoing as the suspects remain in custody pending formal charges.
