NDLEA arrests suspected Mexican drug kingpin, uncovers meth lab in Ebonyi

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has arrested Mexican drug kingpin Arturo Carrera Loaiza, along with dismantling a large-scale methamphetamine lab in Ebonyi State, Nigeria. Loaiza was apprehended on August 19, 2026, while trying to leave Nigeria via Lagos Airport. This arrest comes after an extensive investigation into a network involved in methamphetamine laboratories in Ogun and Oyo states.

Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa, NDLEA's Chairman, revealed that the arrest and dismantling of the Ebonyi lab were part of a larger effort to combat transnational drug syndicates. Loaiza's arrest was linked to the recruitment of a Mexican national arrested at a forest lab in Oyo State. Investigations traced Loaiza to a property under construction in Ebonyi State.

Upon raiding the property, law enforcement recovered methamphetamine-related equipment, chemicals, and paraphernalia, including a dehydrator containing white methamphetamine and three empty dehydrators.

The recovery of illicit substances, along with forensics and eyewitness accounts, strengthened the case against those connected to the network. Marwa warned that Nigeria would not tolerate becoming a haven for international drug cartels. He commended the Special Operations Unit, Strike Force, Forensics, and the Oyo, Ogun, and Ebonyi State Commands for their efforts. The NDLEA urged Nigerians, especially those in affected areas, to remain vigilant against criminal activities.