NDLEA Arraigns Alleged Drug Baron, Three Mexicans In N480bn Meth Case

Ten suspects, including an alleged drug baron and three Mexican nationals, have been arraigned at the Federal High Court in Lagos over a methamphetamine laboratory allegedly found in Mowe, Ogun State.

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency said the case involves 2,419.48 kilogrammes of methamphetamine valued at more than N480bn. The defendants pleaded not guilty before Justice Musa Kakaki.

The defendants named in the charge include Anochili Innocent, 63; Juan Carlos Meza Torrero, 49; Nemecio Martinez Felix, 46; Jesus López Valles, 40; Nwankwo Sunday Christian, 41; Egwuonwu Uchenna Victor, 38; Igwe Abuchi Remijus, 43; Ifeanyichukwu Chibuike Joshua, 23; Omonughwa Kingsley Orike, 45; and Nwobum Emeka, 59.

NDLEA said the suspects were arrested during coordinated operations in Ogun and Lagos between May 16 and May 18, 2026. It said some of the suspects were arrested at a hidden laboratory in Mowe Forest, while Anochili was arrested at a residence in Lakowe, Lekki.

The 11-count charge covers alleged conspiracy, production and possession of methamphetamine, operation of a drug trafficking organisation and movement of precursor chemicals. The agency also accused Anochili of allowing his property to be used for the production of the illicit drug.

The court ordered the defendants to be remanded at the Lagos Correctional Centre. The case was adjourned to July 16 and July 22, 2026, for trial and hearing of bail applications.

Sources: Vanguard, Daily Post