NDLEA Arrests Fugitive Drug Kingpin Festus Ibewuike

Festus Ibewuike, also known as Chidibest Ibewuike, was arrested by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) after spending over two years in hiding abroad. He was apprehended at Cotonou Airport, Benin Republic, on September 2, 2026, following intelligence gathered by the agency.

Ibewuike was charged in connection with the largest heroin seizure recorded at Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos, where 49.70kg of heroin was found hidden in cartons of metal-cutting machines during a 12-day operation in February 2024. His wife, Confidence Ndidiamaka Ibewuike, was also arrested during the crackdown.

The operation led to the freezing of 107 bank accounts and the forfeiture of properties linked to the trafficking network. Ibewuike had relocated to Mozambique, operating a hotel as a cover, and changed his name to avoid detection.

He was formally handed over to Nigerian authorities on September 4, 2026, and confirmed his identity and connection to the heroin parcels. NDLEA Chairman Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd) stated that the arrest demonstrates that no suspect can evade the agency indefinitely.