NDLEA Arrests Notorious Drug Baron in Imo State

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has apprehended Joachin Mbonu, a 42-year-old alleged drug baron, in Imo State. Mbonu, who is reputed for his expertise in methamphetamine production, had previously evaded authorities in South Africa before continuing his illicit activities in Nigeria.

Mbonu was detained alongside his associate in his lavish mansion in Umuomi village, Uzogba-Ezenomi autonomous community, Ikeduru local government area. This operation followed extensive surveillance by the NDLEA, targeting the cartel’s bases in Imo and Rivers states, which are responsible for significant methamphetamine distribution across South East, South-South, and other regions.

The arrest on July 5, 2024, led to the seizure of various quantities of methamphetamine and its precursor chemicals, as well as a pump action gun and cartridges. Specifically, the items confiscated included 419.99 grams of methamphetamine, 750 grams of iodine, 500 grams of sodium bicarbonate, two electronic weighing scales, and a pump action gun with four cartridges.

A subsequent raid at Mbonu’s secondary hideout in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, uncovered further drug-making materials: 750 grams of processed sodium bicarbonate, 170 grams of plain sodium bicarbonate, and 75 grams of meth. Another associate’s residence in Njaba LGA, Imo State, yielded a pump action gun with 25 cartridges, among other items.

Mbonu’s criminal operations trace back to South Africa, where he perfected methamphetamine production techniques before returning to Nigeria to establish clandestine labs in remote areas. His arrest marks a significant victory for the NDLEA, which has also marked two of his mansions for possible forfeiture.

Brigadier General Mohamed Marwa (Rtd), NDLEA Chairman and Chief Executive, praised the officers involved in the operation, emphasizing that this should serve as a stern warning to other drug cartels that they will find no safe haven in Nigeria.