NDLEA arraigns alleged drug baron, three Mexicans, and six Nigerians over N480bn methamphetamine lab
via Punch Nigeria3 min read
The National Drug Enforcement Agency has arraigned 63-year-old Anochili Innocent, three Mexican nationals, and six other Nigerians before the Federal High Court in Lagos. They face an 11-count charge related to the alleged establishment of a clandestine methamphetamine laboratory and the production of illicit drugs valued at over N480bn. The charges include conspiracy, unlawful production and possession of methamphetamine, operating a drug trafficking organization, and unlawful possession of precursor chemicals. The Mexican nationals are Juan Carlos Meza Torrero, Nemecio Martinez Felix, and Jesus L贸pez Valles. The other defendants are Nwankwo Sunday Christian, Egwuonwu Uchenna Victor, Igwe Abuchi Remijus, Ifeanyichukwu Chibuike Joshua, Omonughwa Kingsley Orike, and Nwobum Emeka. The arrests occurred between May 16 and 18, 2026, in Ogun and Lagos states, following raids on a laboratory in Mowe village, Ogun State, and subsequent arrests in Lagos. The defendants allegedly conspired to establish and operate the laboratory between February and May 16, 2026, and are accused of producing and possessing 2,419.48 kilograms of methamphetamine. All 10 defendants pleaded not guilty. Justice Musa Kakaki ordered their remand in the Lagos Correctional Centre and adjourned the matter until July 16 and July 22, 2026, for trial and bail applications. The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the NDLEA, retired Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa, described the case as a significant operation agai
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The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control NAFDAC has issued an alert to Nigerians regarding two alcoholic energy drinks, Bel Ice Vodka Energy Drink and Cody鈥檚 Vody Energy Mix, that were confiscated by Ghanaian authorities. NAFDAC warned importers, distributors, and consumers against bringing these products into Nigeria. The Ghana Food and Drugs Authority seized approximately 140 boxes of the products in the Upper East Region due to concerns about their safety and regulatory status. NAFDAC stated that these products were previously banned from sale and distribution due to potential health risks from combining alcohol and stimulants. The agency highlighted that stimulant ingredients in such drinks can mask alcohol intoxication, leading consumers to underestimate their impairment. Young adults and adolescents are particularly vulnerable to excessive alcohol consumption, impaired judgment, cardiovascular complications, dehydration, sleep disturbances, and increased risk of alcohol-related injuries. NAFDAC urged beverage dealers to ensure products comply with its registration and regulatory requirements and encouraged the public to report any sightings of these products or adverse events to the nearest NAFDAC office or via its e-reporting platforms.
Must ReadOyo State Governor Seyi Makinde stated that the abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area occurred hours after he declared his intention to contest the 2027 presidential election. Makinde, who made the remark while addressing a meeting in Bauchi, noted that Oyo State had not experienced a similar incident during his seven years in office before the May 15 attack. He formally declared his presidential ambition on May 14 at a joint rally in Ibadan, aiming to "reset Nigeria," and later emerged as the presidential candidate for the Allied Peoples Movement. Hours after Makinde's comments, the Presidency announced that all victims were rescued after 56 days in captivity through a joint operation involving the military, Department of State Services, and police. Eight suspected kidnappers were arrested and are in DSS custody, while others were neutralized. The Presidency confirmed that no negotiation or exchange took place despite the abductors' demand for a detained kingpin's release. Following the rescue, Makinde expressed relief and thanked President Tinubu and security agencies for securing the victims' freedom, describing it as a "big relief" for the families and people of Oyo State. President Tinubu also commended the security agencies and directed emergency agencies to provide medical care and support to the rescued individuals.
The Peoples Democratic Party PDP and African Action Congress presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore have praised the rescue of pupils and teachers abducted in Oyo State's Orire Local Government Area. The PDP, through its National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Ini Ememobong, welcomed the victims' safe return, acknowledging the efforts of the Federal Government, Oyo State government, security agencies, and other contributors, despite limited details on the rescue operation. The party highlighted the abduction as a stark reminder of Nigeria's security challenges, emphasizing the need for educational institutions to be safe spaces and urging the Federal Government to implement stronger measures to prevent future incidents. Omoyele Sowore also expressed gratitude to all who contributed to securing the victims' freedom. Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde described the rescue as a "big relief" after 57 days in captivity. The Presidency confirmed the rescue, stating that eight suspected kidnappers were arrested and are in the custody of the Department of State Services, with others neutralized during the operation. The rescue was achieved without meeting the kidnappers' demand for the release of a detained kingpin.