Three Nigerians Acquitted of Drug Trafficking Charges in Saudi Arabia…Ministry of Foreign Affairs Confirms Their Release After 10 Months in Detention.

By Caroline Ameh

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has confirmed the release and acquittal of three Nigerian nationals, Hadiza Abba, Fatima Umate Malah, and Fatima Kannai Gamboi, who were detained in Saudi Arabia for alleged drug trafficking. The trio, who spent 10 months in detention, were arrested on March 5, 2024, at Prince Mohammad bin Abdul Azeez International Airport, Madinah.

According to a statement signed by Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, Acting Spokesperson of the Ministry, and made available to Journalists on Sunday, 5th january,2024, the three women were implicated following the earlier arrest of two Nigerians found in possession of illegal substances. One of the suspects was caught with 80 capsules of cocaine weighing 900.28 grams, while the other had 70 capsules of cocaine weighing 789.5 grams.

Saudi authorities had detained the women on suspicion of complicity in the trafficking of the banned substances. However, after prolonged diplomatic and legal efforts by the Nigerian government, the women were discharged and acquitted by the Saudi judicial system.

The Ministry noted that their arrest had garnered widespread attention in both Nigeria and Saudi Arabia. Following their release, the three women were handed over to the Consulate-General of Nigeria in Jeddah, where they were received by Ambassador Muazam Nayaya, the Consul-General.

The Ministry further disclosed that the women are currently undergoing immigration processes and are expected to return to Nigeria soon to reunite with their families.

The Nigerian government reiterated its commitment to ensuring the welfare of its citizens abroad and urged Nigerians to be cautious and avoid getting involved in illegal activities, especially in countries with strict laws against drug trafficking.