The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has commenced the prosecution of businessman, Chief Ukatu Afamefuna Mallinson, and two other defendants before the Federal High Court in Lagos over allegations bordering on unlawful possession and trafficking of 322 kilograms of Tramadol.
The defendants, identified as Pius Enidom and Sunday Ifeanyi Ibekwute, are standing trial alongside Ukatu before Justice Yellim Bogoro.
The case, filed under charge number FHC/L/159C/2021, involves allegations of conspiracy, unlawful possession and trafficking of the prohibited substance.
Proceedings resumed afresh before Justice Bogoro following the transfer of the former trial judge, Justice Peter Lifu, to the Abuja Division of the Federal High Court.
The defendants were initially arraigned in 2022 and entered not guilty pleas to all charges.
According to the charge, the NDLEA alleged that the defendants conspired on or about May 4, 2021, in Ikeja, Lagos State, to possess 322 kilograms of Tramadol without lawful authorisation.
During Monday’s sitting, the prosecution team led by Adekunle Adebajo and Owoyomi informed the court that the matter had been scheduled for commencement of trial.
The agency thereafter presented its first witness, Dogo Hyelda Moses, an operative of the NDLEA.
In his testimony, Moses explained his involvement after the arrest of the defendants and stated that both the suspects and exhibits allegedly recovered during the operation were transferred to him as part of the agency’s investigative process.
The witness narrated the procedures followed in handling the suspects and the exhibits linked to the case.
Defence counsel, including B.C. Igwilo (SAN), Omon Omofoma and Ayowande Olatunji, cross-examined the witness on behalf of the defendants.
The prosecution is expected to present additional witnesses as proceedings continue in an effort to establish the allegations before the court.
Justice Bogoro subsequently adjourned the matter until November 5 for continuation of trial.
