Indian police have apprehended a Nigerian national in a drug bust that revealed a novel method of concealment. The suspect was caught transporting a substantial quantity of cocaine cleverly hidden inside an everyday food item.
Bread Loaves Used to Conceal Contraband
The Central Crime Branch (CCB) in Bengaluru arrested 29-year-old Olajide Esther on Tuesday, December 23, 2025. The arrest occurred as she was traveling from Mumbai to Bengaluru in a private bus. Acting on credible intelligence, a special CCB team monitored her movements and intercepted her upon arrival in the city.
During a search of her belongings, officers made a startling discovery. Esther had allegedly cut open slices of bread and concealed 121 grams of cocaine inside before resealing them. The drug-laden loaf was packed alongside other food items in her backpack, a tactic believed to avoid raising suspicion during transport.
Drug Peddling Network Uncovered
The seized cocaine has an estimated street value of Rs 65 lakh. Police investigations revealed that Esther was actively involved in drug peddling, specifically supplying cocaine to clients in Bengaluru. She reportedly procured the narcotics from a male associate in Mumbai and transported them via private bus services.
An investigating officer disclosed the operational details: "She was directed to carry the drug herself and hand it over to another Nigerian national residing in Bengaluru. This was done to minimise suspicion and avoid courier-based interception."
Following Esther's statement, police conducted a follow-up operation near Varthur and successfully arrested the intended recipient of the drugs. Officials confirmed that the prospective Nigerian buyer was deported soon after his arrest.
Visa Violation and Ongoing Investigation
Further inquiries into Esther's background uncovered that she had arrived in India on a student visa issued in New Delhi. However, investigation revealed she did not enroll with any educational institution. Instead, she frequently changed her location within Mumbai and its suburbs, including Ghatkopar (Gala Nagar).
A senior police officer commented on the case, stating, "This case shows how traffickers are constantly innovating ways, using common household items and food as cover."
The authorities have registered a case under the stringent Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. The investigation remains active as officers work to trace Esther's wider network and identify other links in the drug supply chain.
