NDLEA Busts Nigerian-Mexican Meth Cartel, Seizes Record N480bn Drug Haul ‎ ‎

‎By Christian Onota

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has dismantled a major Nigerian-Mexican methamphetamine production syndicate in what officials described as one of the biggest anti-drug operations in Nigeria’s history.‎

‎This was Contained in a statement signed by Femi Babafemi Director, Media and Advocacy NDLEA Headquarters, on  Wednesday 20th May 2026 in Abuja
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‎The statement reads;”This war is for the soul of our nation, and we will not back down until we achieve a drug-free Nigeria”
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‎Addressing journalists in Abuja on Wednesday, NDLEA Boss, Mohamed Buba Marwa, said the agency’s Special Operations Unit (SOU) carried out coordinated raids in Ogun and Lagos states, leading to the discovery and shutdown of the largest clandestine meth lab ever found in Nigeria.
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‎”The hidden industrial-scale laboratory, located in Abidagba Forest in Ijebu East Local Government Area of Ogun State, was allegedly operated by a transnational drug syndicate led by suspected kingpin Anochili Innocent in collaboration with three Mexican meth-production experts and local accomplices”
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‎NDLEA Boss said 10 suspects were arrested during the operation, including the alleged cartel leader, three Mexican nationals, and six Nigerian collaborators.
‎According to the agency, operatives seized 2,419.48 kilograms of methamphetamine and chemical substances valued at $362.9 million (about N480 billion), making it the largest meth seizure in the agency’s history. Two vehicles linked to the cartel were also recovered.
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‎Marwa described the bust as a major blow to transnational organized crime, warning that Nigeria would remain hostile territory for drug traffickers and clandestine drug manufacturers.
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‎He further urged Nigerians to stay vigilant and report suspicious activities, noting that the illegal meth laboratory had been operating under the guise of a regular farm in Ogun State.