The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has dismantled a sophisticated Nigerian-Mexican methamphetamine production network operating from a hidden laboratory in Ogun State, arresting several suspects, including three Mexican nationals allegedly recruited as chemists for the illicit operation,The agency described the development as the largest clandestine methamphetamine seizure in Nigeria’s history, following a coordinated operation carried out by its Special Operations Unit across Ogun and Lagos states.
Speaking during a press briefing in Abuja, NDLEA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Brigadier General Buba Marwa (retd.), disclosed that months of intelligence gathering led operatives to a forest location in Abidagba, Ijebu East Local Government Area of Ogun State, where the syndicate had established an industrial-scale methamphetamine laboratory.
The suspects were allegedly caught in the process of manufacturing illicit substances when operatives stormed the facility. Among those arrested were three Mexican nationals identified as Martinez Felix Nemecto, Jesus López Valles, and Torrero Juan Carlos, who were reportedly brought into Nigeria to provide technical expertise for methamphetamine production.
The NDLEA also apprehended several Nigerian collaborators linked to the operation. Follow-up raids in Lagos led to the arrest of the alleged kingpin, Anochili Innocent, at his residence in Lekki, while additional suspects connected to the syndicate were taken into custody at different locations.
Authorities said the operation resulted in the seizure of approximately 2,419 kilograms of methamphetamine and precursor chemicals used in the manufacture of synthetic drugs. The confiscated substances were estimated to have an international market value exceeding N480 billion.
Marwa warned that the agency would intensify efforts to combat transnational drug trafficking networks attempting to establish production bases within Nigeria. He stressed that the country would no longer serve as a safe haven for international criminal organisations involved in narcotics production and distribution.
The NDLEA boss also expressed concern over emerging trends involving the recruitment of foreign specialists by local drug cartels to establish clandestine laboratories in remote communities across the country.
He called on Nigerians to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement agencies by reporting suspicious activities within their neighbourhoods, noting that community support remains critical in the fight against illicit drug trafficking.
The agency reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding public health and national security through sustained operations aimed at dismantling criminal networks involved in the production and distribution of dangerous substances.
