The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency has arrested and repatriated a suspected drug kingpin, Festus Ibewuike, also known as Chidibest Ibewuike, after more than two years on the run.
Ibewuike was declared wanted following the seizure of 49.70kg of heroin at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, in February 2024. The consignment, concealed in cartons of metal-cutting machines, was described by the NDLEA as the largest heroin seizure recorded at the airport.
The agency’s Director of Media and Advocacy, Femi Babafemi, disclosed the development in a statement on Wednesday.
According to the NDLEA, Ibewuike fled to Mozambique after being charged in absentia alongside other members of the alleged drug syndicate. He was reportedly operating a hotel business there as a cover while moving between Mozambique and Nigeria through neighbouring Benin Republic.
The agency said his wife, Confidence Ndidiamaka Ibewuike, was among those arrested during the investigation. She allegedly received drug parcels marked with the code “ND” on behalf of the fugitive.
The NDLEA also revealed that 107 bank accounts linked to the syndicate were frozen, while properties associated with the cartel were forfeited.
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Three suspects have already been convicted and sentenced, while others remain on trial before the Federal High Court in Ikoyi, Lagos.
Following actionable intelligence, Ibewuike was arrested at an airport in Cotonou, Benin Republic, on September 2, 2026.
The NDLEA said it collaborated with INTERPOL authorities in Nigeria and Benin Republic to secure his handover. A team of NDLEA operatives subsequently travelled to Cotonou and brought him back to Nigeria on September 4.
The agency said his arrest brings to an end his lengthy period as a fugitive.
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