A Nigerian national, Richard Onyekachid Idi, has been detained in Sierra Leone following the discovery of eight pallets of cocaine at the Freetown International Airport.

Idi was brought before Magistrate Sahr Kekura on Monday, September 23, 2024, to face charges of possession, dealing, and transporting prohibited drugs. The charges stem from the seizure of the cocaine on September 13, 2024.

State prosecutor Isaac A. Kamara presented evidence from Detective Sergeant Prince Joe Jabati of the Transnational Organized Crime Unit (TOCU). Jabati detailed the events leading up to Idi’s arrest and the subsequent investigation.

Defense attorney J. T. Mansaray requested bail for his client, citing medical needs and the availability of credible sureties. However, Magistrate Kekura ordered a medical examination to determine if Idi could be held at the correctional center.

The case has been adjourned to Thursday, September 26, 2024, to allow for further proceedings.