Police seize 8 kg cocaine at Istanbul Ataturk Airport

2 Nigerian nationals, who were carrying cocaine, were also arrested

By Huseyin Bagis

ISTANBUL (AA) - Turkish police have arrested two Nigerian nationals at the Istanbul Ataturk Airport for carrying over 8 kilograms (18 pounds) of cocaine.

The Anti-Narcotic Crime Branch teams of the Istanbul Police Department searched the suitcases and bags of the suspects, who arrived at the Istanbul Ataturk Airport from Brazil’s Sao Paulo on March 7, said a source on condition of anonymity due to restrictions on speaking to the media.

As a result of the search, nearly 8 kilogram (18 pounds) of cocaine, which was hidden in chocolate and shower gel packets, was found, the source added.

Following the investigation, the police discovered an auto painter was the recipient of the drug. The suspect, who took a loan to purchase the drug, has also been taken into custody.

The suspects has been remanded in custody by a court.

The market value of the drug seized in operation is 2 million Turkish lira (around $352,000).

*Writing by Gozde Bayar

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