NDLEA Dismantles Major Meth Lab, Arrests Five Suspects

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) announced the dismantling of a multi-billion-naira clandestine methamphetamine laboratory located in Tapa Village, Ibarapa North Local Government Area, Oyo State, on June 17. The operation resulted in the arrest of five suspects, including 56-year-old Mexican methamphetamine expert Jose Villa Ochoa and four Nigerians: Maxwel Nevoh (30), Olatunji Yusuf (37), Bankol Owolabi (45), and Ganiu Monsiu (43).

NDLEA Chairman, Brigadier General Buba Marwa (Retd), described the discovery as a significant breakthrough in the agency's ongoing campaign against drug trafficking. The laboratory was identified as highly sophisticated and organized, indicating the presence of a transnational drug syndicate.

During the raid, forensic experts confirmed the presence of methamphetamine, and a large quantity of precursor chemicals and industrial equipment were seized. This operation underscores the international dimension of drug trafficking and the NDLEA's capability to combat such threats effectively.