Rita Odafe
A Nigerian man, aged 35, and his 27-year-old Gambian spouse have both been sentenced to life imprisonment and fined Dh500,000 for attempting to import 4.2 kilograms of marijuana into the UAE.
The couple was apprehended at Dubai International Airport on January 2, 2024, during a standard customs check.
The situation escalated when customs officials identified a suspicious density in the woman’s luggage.
Upon further examination, they uncovered 4,290.86 grams of marijuana concealed within several vehicle filters, leading to the woman’s immediate detention for questioning.
An investigation later revealed that the drugs were meant for her husband, who was arrested in Dubai’s Naif district while attempting to collect the shipment from a courier service.
Throughout the trial, the court assessed various pieces of evidence including forensic reports, digital communications linking the Nigerian man to the cargo, and testimonies from customs personnel.
The couple initially denied any knowledge of the narcotics. However, their claims were rejected by the court, which found their defense unconvincing. The judge noted their use of cocaine, which undermined their assertions of unawareness regarding the shipment’s contents.
Additionally, the court pointed out that the couple had prior involvement with other drug shipments in the months of August and November, establishing a pattern of illegal activity. Digital proof also confirmed their intentions to engage in drug smuggling.
On November 28, the Dubai Criminal Court found them guilty of drug smuggling, sentencing them to life imprisonment with subsequent deportation.
Apart from their prison sentences, they were each imposed a fine of Dh500,000. Should they fail to pay, they will face an extra day in jail for every Dh100 of the fine.
The court also ordered the destruction of the confiscated drugs.
