FG Announces Acquittal Of Three Nigerian Women Charged With Drug Trafficking In Saudi Arabia
Princess-Ekwi Ajide
The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced the release of three Nigerian women, Hadiza Abba, Fatima Umate Malah, and Fatima Kannai Gamboi, who were detained for 10 months in Saudi Arabia on drug trafficking charges.
Speaking through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, government said the women were arrested on March 5, 2024, at Prince Mohammad bin Abdul Azeez International Airport in Madinah, following the apprehension of two Nigerian nationals caught with over 1.6 kilogrammes of cocaine.
According to a statement signed by the Acting Spokesperson of the Ministry, Kimiebi Ebienfa, initially suspected of being accomplices, the women faced legal battles that garnered widespread attention in both Saudi Arabia and Nigeria.
Their acquittal and subsequent discharge came after months of intense diplomatic and legal efforts by the Nigerian government.
The statement notes the trio have since been handed over to Nigeria’s Consulate-General in Jeddah, led by Ambassador Muazam Nayaya, and are undergoing immigration procedures to facilitate their return home.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs further commended the collaborative efforts that led to the women’s release, emphasising Nigeria’s commitment to protecting its citizens abroad.
