Alleged drug trafficking : 3 Nigerian women released in Saudi Arabia after 10-month detention

Three Nigerian women detained in Saudi Arabia on drug trafficking charges have been acquitted and released after spending 10 months in custody.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, confirmed their release on Sunday, highlighting the role of diplomatic efforts in resolving the case.

The women—Hadiza Abba, Fatima Umate Malah, and Fatima Kannai Gamboi—were arrested on March 5, 2024, at Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Madinah. Their detention followed the discovery of 1.69 kilograms of cocaine capsules in the possession of two other Nigerians. Authorities had held the women on suspicion of assisting in the smuggling operation.

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“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs wishes to inform that three Nigerian nationals, Hadiza Abba, Fatima Umate Malah, and Fatima Kannai Gamboi, arrested and prosecuted for drug trafficking on March 5, 2024, at Prince Mohammad bin Abdul Azeez International Airport Madinah, Saudi Arabia, has been released after spending 10 months in detention,” the ministry stated.

The statement further explained that their release was secured after sustained diplomatic and legal interventions, culminating in their acquittal.

The women were handed over to Nigeria’s Consulate in Jeddah, where they were received by Ambassador Muazam Nayaya, the Consul-General. They are currently undergoing immigration formalities to return home and reunite with their families.

The case had drawn significant attention in both Nigeria and Saudi Arabia, underscoring the complexities of international legal and diplomatic engagements.