NDLEA Arrests Fugitive Kingpin Linked to 49.70kg Heroin Seizure

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, has arrested and repatriated Festus Ibewuike, also known as Chidibest Ibewuike, a suspected drug kingpin who had been on the run for more than two years.

NDLEA Director of Media and Advocacy, Femi Babafemi, says Ibewuike was arrested at an airport in Cotonou, Benin Republic, on September 2 following intelligence and collaboration with Interpol in Nigeria and Benin Republic.

He was subsequently handed over to NDLEA operatives and returned to Nigeria.

The agency says Ibewuike was declared wanted following the interception of 49.70 kilogrammes of heroin at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos in February 2024.

The drugs were reportedly concealed in cartons containing metal-cutting machines. Several suspected members of the syndicate were arrested, while properties and bank accounts linked to the cartel were frozen.

NDLEA Chairman, retired Brigadier General Buba Marwa, described the arrest as a major breakthrough in the fight against drug trafficking.

Marwa says the agency will continue to track down fleeing drug suspects regardless of how long they remain on the run or where they hide.