NSCDC uncovers underground tunnels, arrests man at suspected Delta drug den

Underground tunnels, suspected illicit drugs and a notebook containing alleged payment records have been uncovered at a fortified property in Asaba, Delta State, prompting a wider investigation by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) into possible links to other criminal activities.

The operation on Monday, October 12, also led to the arrest of a man identified as Yakubu, who allegedly arrived at the property to buy drugs while operatives were conducting the raid, according to reports quoting the NSCDC’s Delta State Command.

The discovery has raised questions about how the facility operated, who controlled it and whether the underground passages were used to help suspects evade security operatives. The corps said it was investigating a possible connection to kidnapping but had not established such a link.

The NSCDC’s Commandant’s Patrol Team carried out the operation at Fallingwater Colehouse, Yahweh Close, off Akara Junction, along the 74 Junction–Asaba Specialist Hospital axis.

DSC Anthony Akachukwu, the command’s public relations officer, said operatives spent three days trying to gain access to the building before using a blowtorch to breach its roof.

“This little place that you have seen captured is a very fortified hideout. It will surprise you that after making attempts for three days, they only got through today because they had to use a blowtorch to access this little building from the top,” Akachukwu told journalists after the operation.

According to the spokesman, operatives found several layers of fortified iron doors and underground passages that suspects allegedly used to escape when security personnel approached the property.

He said some suspects escaped during the operation, adding that the tunnels had complicated efforts to secure the premises and apprehend those allegedly involved.

Suspected drugs, payment records recovered

The operatives reportedly recovered substances locally known as “Loud” and “Ice”, alongside PVC gum and other materials suspected to be connected to drug distribution.

The command also reportedly recovered a notebook containing entries believed to document payments to security personnel. However, the identities of the individuals or agencies allegedly referenced in the records have not been publicly established, and the authenticity of the entries remains unverified.

The alleged payment records could become a significant part of the investigation if investigators establish their authenticity and determine who made or received the payments.

The reports did not establish that any security personnel had been implicated in a verified offence.

Investigation widens beyond suspected drug dealing

The discovery of the tunnels has prompted investigators to examine whether the property was used exclusively for suspected drug dealing or served other criminal purposes.

Akachukwu said the command was investigating a possible link to kidnapping, although no confirmed connection had been established. The identities and whereabouts of suspects who escaped during the operation also remain under investigation.

A resident quoted in a separate report alleged that unusual movements around the property had continued for years, with people and vehicles visiting at different times of the day and night. The claims have not been independently verified.

The NSCDC is also investigating the ownership of the property. Akachukwu said the command had obtained information about the owner but would not disclose details until they had been verified.

The location is expected to remain under surveillance while operatives pursue further arrests and investigate the materials recovered during the operation.