NDLEA Dismantles $360M Meth Lab Linked to Mexicans

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) dismantled what is described as the largest methamphetamine laboratory ever found in Nigeria, located in Ogun State. This operation was executed following a court order due to environmental concerns regarding chemicals left at the site.

On Wednesday, NDLEA operatives dismantled the makeshift lab, which was hidden in a forest between the Abidagba and Iroto communities. The lab was raided in May, resulting in the arrest of 10 suspects, including three Mexican nationals and seven Nigerians.

The agency recovered methamphetamine and precursor chemicals valued at approximately $360 million from two residential properties in Lagos. NDLEA Deputy Commander of Narcotics, James Taalba, stated the agency is prepared to confront foreign drug cartels attempting to operate in Nigeria.

NDLEA Director of Forensics, Patricia Afolabi, indicated that the dismantling was necessary due to risks of groundwater and air pollution from the chemicals used in methamphetamine production.