NDLEA cracks down on drug syndicates, arrests two kingpins preparing narcotics for export

NDLEA cracks down on drug syndicates, arrests two kingpins preparing narcotics for export

Abdullateef Fowewe

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has arrested two notorious drug kingpins, Victor Nwosa and Felix Chika Obiegbu, following weeks of intensive surveillance and intelligence gathering.

The suspects were caught with consignments of cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine being prepared for export to Europe and beyond, the agency revealed in a statement on Sunday.

Femi Babafemi, NDLEA Director of Media & Advocacy, disclosed that “Nwosa, 64, parades himself as a successful textile merchant, while Obiegbu, 49, is known as a businessman involved in wine distribution. Beneath their outward appearances, however, lies a hidden illicit drug business unearthed by NDLEA operatives.”

The arrests occurred separately in Lagos. Nwosa was apprehended on September 17 at his Okota residence, where authorities recovered 4.33 kilograms of heroin and 448 grams of cocaine.

Obiegbu was detained on September 11 at his Aguda Surulere home, where 2.902 kilograms of methamphetamine were seized.

Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), Chairman and CEO of NDLEA, praised the officers from various commands for their “dexterity” in the operations. He underscored, “The success of the various operations across the country underscores our commitment to safeguarding Nigeria from illicit substances that threaten public health and national security. Every gram of these dangerous drugs we seize reinforces our determination to protect our youths, disrupt criminal networks, and strengthen national security.”