The Federal High Court sitting in Lagos has remanded the Managing Director of Mallinson & Partners Ltd, Ukatu Afamefuna Mallinson, alongside his co-defendant Sunday Ifeanyi Ibekwute over an alleged illegal drugs charge, at the Nigerian Correctional Services custody.
Justice Peter Lifu made the order following their arraignment by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).
Ukatu had been accused by the NDLEA in 2019 to have allegedly imported two containers containing 1,284 cartons of Tramadol worth N22billion.
The agency also claimed that he was behind a N3billion shipment of tramadol linked to the suspended police chief, Abba Kyari.
It was alleged that Ukatu, Ibekwute and one Pius Enidom, who allegedly jumped bail, on May 4, 2021, conspired to commit the offence.
Prosecution counsel Mrs. Theresa Asuquo told the court that the alleged offences contravened Sections 14(b); 11 and 11(b) of the NDLEA Act, 2004.
Justice Lifu remanded both defendants in the NCoS’ custody and adjourned till July 18, for ruling on their bail applications.
The judge also issued a Bench warrant against Enidom, following his failure to appear in court despite being issued a hearing notice.
