Two-Year Manhunt Ends as NDLEA Arrests Major Drug Suspect in Bayelsa

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Bayelsa State has arrested a suspected major drug distributor in Yenagoa following an operation that led to the recovery of controlled substances valued at approximately N3 million.

The suspect, identified as Chimezie Collins, also known as “Mezico,” operates MEZICO Pharmacy along the Mbiam–Yenagoa Road in Kpansia. He was taken into custody with various quantities of regulated and illicit drugs.

Items recovered from him include 1,030 tablets and caplets of substances such as Tramadol (200mg and 100mg), Rohypnol (Swinol), Diazepam, and MDMA (commonly known as Molly), bringing the total to about 1,900 tablets and caplets. Officers also recovered 150 bottles of Diazepam and Pentazocine injections, as well as 77 bottles of codeine-based syrup. The total weight of the seized items was estimated at 12.461 kilograms.

According to the NDLEA Bayelsa State Command, the suspect had been under surveillance for about two years due to alleged involvement in the distribution of controlled substances.

The Command’s spokesperson, SN Daniel Obah, confirmed the arrest in a statement issued on Thursday, April 2, 2026.

State Commander Kanu Sunny Chukwuemeka described the operation as the result of sustained intelligence gathering and coordinated field action. He commended officers for what he called a disciplined approach to the arrest and recovery.

He also acknowledged support from the agency’s leadership under Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa and cooperation from the Bayelsa State Government led by Governor Douye Diri.

The command reiterated its warning to individuals involved in the illegal drug trade, stating that enforcement actions will continue across the state.