Rita Odafe
The Mangaluru City Crime Branch (CCB) in India has arrested a Nigerian national for allegedly trafficking cocaine from Goa to Mangaluru.
The suspect, Michael Okafar Odikpo, was apprehended with 30 grams of cocaine along with cash and a vehicle used in his illicit activities.
This arrest was part of an investigation that began in March 2024 when two individuals were detained in Ullal for selling 34 grams of cocaine. They disclosed their source in Goa, prompting police to target Calangute.
During the crackdown, authorities seized cocaine, a car, mobile devices, cash, and a digital weighing scale, with an estimated total worth of Rs 11.25 lakh.
Originally from Lagos, Nigeria, Odikpo arrived in India on a business visa in 2012. After a short stay in Mumbai, he relocated to Goa, where he reportedly became involved in drug trafficking. He has a history of three previous drug cases in Goa.
Odikpo has been transferred to the relevant police station for further legal action. The operation was spearheaded by ACP Manoj Kumar Nayak, with support from Inspector Shyam Sundar H.M., PSI Sharanappa Bhandari, and additional officers.
This case highlights the ongoing efforts of Karnataka police to dismantle cross-border drug trafficking networks.
