NSCDC uncovers underground tunnels at suspected Delta drug hideout

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps has discovered underground tunnels at a fortified suspected drug outlet in Asaba, Delta State, and is investigating whether the property was used for other criminal activities.

The command said its Commandant’s Patrol Team uncovered the passages during an operation on Monday, October 12, at Fallingwater Colehouse Yahweh Close, off Akara Junction, along the 74 Junction–Asaba Specialist Hospital axis. Command spokesman DSC Anthony Akachukwu said operatives spent three days attempting to enter the building before gaining access through its roof with a blowtorch.

“This little place that you have seen captured is a very fortified hideout. It will surprise you that after making attempts for three days, they only got through today because they had to use blowtorch to access this little building from the top,” he told journalists. Akachukwu said officers encountered multiple layers of reinforced iron doors before discovering the underground passages.

“After blowing through the top, we discovered other panels, layers of fortified iron doors and, getting into the drug hideout, we discovered that there are several tunnels which the criminals here used to escape most of the times when they are being checked or chased after,” he said. Several suspects escaped during the operation, according to the spokesman. He said the tunnels’ size and layout prompted investigators to examine whether the premises had been used for activities beyond the suspected drug trade.

A possible connection to kidnapping is being investigated, but the command has not established such a link. Operatives reportedly recovered substances locally called “Loud” and “Ice”, alongside PVC gum and other materials. The command alleged that some suspected operators fled with additional substances. A man identified as Yakubu was arrested after allegedly arriving to purchase drugs while the operation was underway.

Akachukwu said the man began negotiating with an officer whom he apparently mistook for someone working at the outlet. “We intend to make more arrests and then at the end of the arrests necessary actions will be taken,” the spokesman said. Investigators are also examining a notebook reportedly found at the property, which the command said contained entries suggesting payments to security personnel.

The NSCDC has not identified any personnel or agencies allegedly mentioned. The notebook’s contents and authenticity have not been independently verified. A resident, speaking anonymously for security reasons, told Punch that visitors had frequented the property at different hours for years. He said customers could obtain substances through an opening without meeting suppliers directly and claimed that vehicles and young people regularly visited late at night.

The resident urged the state government and security agencies to consider demolishing the structure and sealing the tunnels, expressing concern that arrests alone might not prevent the suspected operation from resuming. Akachukwu said investigators were working to establish ownership of the property. “Investigations are ongoing to uncover the owner of the property. We already have information, but nothing will be made public until some ascertaining is done,” he said.

He added that officers would maintain surveillance while pursuing further arrests and gathering evidence for possible court proceedings. The investigation will examine who controlled the premises, the purpose of the tunnels and whether others were involved. Allegations against the suspects, including claims concerning security personnel, remain unproven.