In a significant breakthrough, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has apprehended a notorious drug baron, Joachin Mbonu. Mbonu, who had been on the wanted list of the agency, was captured in his opulent mansion in Imo State on July 5. The arrest was made possible by the relentless efforts of the NDLEA operatives.
According to Femi Babafemi, the spokesperson for the NDLEA, Mbonu is a key member of a drug cartel that specializes in the production and distribution of methamphetamine, commonly known as “Mkpuru mmiri”. The cartel, which operated in Imo and Rivers states, was responsible for the widespread distribution of this dangerous psychoactive substance across the South-East, South-South, and other parts of Nigeria.
During the operation, the NDLEA recovered a substantial amount of methamphetamine, weighing 419.99 grams, along with 750 grams of iodine, which is a precursor chemical used in the production of methamphetamine. Additionally, a pump-action gun with four cartridges was seized.
The successful raid on Mbonu’s mansion in Imo State was the culmination of weeks of careful surveillance and intelligence gathering. The operation also led to the arrest of Kenneth Chibuike Ofoegbu, a member of Mbonu’s drug cartel.
The NDLEA further conducted raids on the residences of Mbonu’s associates in Rivers and Imo states, resulting in the recovery of various illicit drugs. One of the associates, Odoemenam Pedro Chinedu, is currently at large. During the search at Chinedu’s home in Njaba LGA, Imo State, a pump-action gun with 25 cartridges was found, along with other items. The agency has marked two of Mbonu’s mansions in Imo State for possible forfeiture to the Federal Government.
It is worth noting that Mbonu had previously fled South Africa, where he had lived for several years, after coming under investigation for his involvement in drug trafficking. Upon returning to Nigeria, he continued his illicit activities by setting up secret laboratories in remote villages to avoid detection.
The arrest of Joachin Mbonu is a significant victory for the NDLEA in its relentless fight against drug trafficking and abuse. It sends a strong message to other drug cartels operating in Nigeria that their activities will not go unpunished.
The agency continues to intensify its efforts to curb the production, distribution, and consumption of illicit substances in the country. The collaboration between the NDLEA and other security agencies is crucial in dismantling drug networks and ensuring the safety and well-being of the Nigerian population.
The arrest of a high-profile drug baron like Mbonu serves as a reminder that no criminal can evade justice forever. The NDLEA remains committed to its mission of eradicating drug trafficking and creating a drug-free society for all Nigerians.
