NDLEA Arrests Fugitive Kingpin Festus Ibewuike

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) arrested 52-year-old Festus Ibewuike, also known as Chidibest Ibewuike, in Cotonou, Benin Republic, on September 2, 2026. He was wanted for his involvement in a 49.70kg heroin shipment intercepted at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, in February 2024.

The NDLEA's statement, signed by Director of Media and Advocacy Femi Babafemi, revealed that Ibewuike had been evading authorities by moving between Mozambique and Nigeria. He operated a hotel business in Mozambique as a front.

Following his arrest, the NDLEA collaborated with INTERPOL to secure his return to Nigeria. A team of NDLEA operatives was deployed to Cotonou on September 4 to take custody of him.

Ibewuike had previously been declared wanted after the heroin was seized, which led to the arrest of several syndicate members, including his wife, Confidence Ndidiamaka Ibewuike. The operation resulted in the freezing of 107 bank accounts and the forfeiture of properties linked to the cartel.

Ibewuike was charged in absentia and later confirmed his identity during preliminary interviews.