NDLEA arrests fugitive drug kingpin linked to record heroin seizure

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has arrested and repatriated Festus Ibewuike, a suspected drug kingpin who had been a fugitive for over two years. Ibewuike was apprehended at an airport in Cotonou, Benin Republic, on September 2, following actionable intelligence and collaboration between Nigerian and Beninese INTERPOL offices.

Ibewuike is linked to the seizure of 49.7kg of heroin at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos in February 2024, which remains the largest heroin consignment ever recorded at that location. The drugs were discovered concealed within cartons of metal-cutting machines during a 12-day operation.

To evade authorities, Ibewuike reportedly relocated to Mozambique, where he allegedly operated a hotel as a front while traveling between Mozambique and Nigeria via the Benin Republic. The investigation into the syndicate has already led to the freezing of 107 bank accounts and the forfeiture of various properties. While several associates have already been convicted and sentenced, others remain on trial in the Federal High Court in Lagos.