NDLEA uncovers ‘secret’ Nigerian-Mexican meth cartel

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has dismantled a Nigerian-Mexican drug network operating a clandestine methamphetamine laboratory in Enugu State. Two suspects, 45-year-old Chukwu Christopher, alias Brown, and 60-year-old Chukwu Monday, alias George, were arrested by the agency following months of intelligence gathering and surveillance.

They were charged with conspiracy, management and financing of a drug trafficking organization, and unlawful possession of precursor chemicals used in methamphetamine production. The suspects pleaded not guilty to the charges, and their trial has been scheduled for October 21, 2026. The agency also disclosed the presence of a sophisticated transnational operation involving Nigerian and Mexican suspects, with a laboratory capable of producing methamphetamine in commercial quantities.

Recovered substances included large quantities of precursor chemicals, fuel tanks, gas burners, dehydrators, and ephedrine. NDLEA Chairman Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa emphasized the agency's commitment to tracking down fleeing suspects and preventing Nigeria from becoming a base for transnational drug networks.