NDLEA Arrests Drug Kingpin Festus Ibewuike in Benin
Festus Ibewuike, also known as Chidibest Ibewuike, was captured by operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Cotonou, Benin Republic, on September 2, 2026, ending his two-year escape. His arrest followed actionable intelligence and collaboration with INTERPOL.
Ibewuike, 52, had been declared wanted after the NDLEA intercepted 49.70 kilograms of heroin at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos, in February 2024, marking the largest heroin seizure at the airport. The drugs were concealed in metal-cutting machine cartons.
The investigation led to the arrest of several syndicate members, including Ibewuike's wife, Confidence Ndidiamaka Ibewuike. Following the drug seizure, Ibewuike fled to Mozambique, using a hotel business as a front, and moved between Mozambique and Nigeria via Benin Republic.
He was returned to Nigeria on September 5, where he identified himself and the heroin parcels linked to him.
Plus234Feed summary based on reporting from The Will. Read the original report below.
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