The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has succeeded in arresting Ogbonnaya Kevin Jeff, a 59-year-old suspected drug baron who had been on the run for 17 years.
According to NDLEA Chairman, Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa, Jeff’s arrest was made possible by an Interpol red notice and intelligence from the National Intelligence Service of South Korea.
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NDLEA operatives tracked Jeff to his hideout in the Ojo area of Lagos, where he was arrested on February 12, 2025.
The agency alleges that Jeff is linked to multiple cases of illicit drug trafficking, including the recruitment of young Nigerians as couriers to smuggle illicit substances into South Korea.
The NDLEA also claims to have discovered that Jeff laundered drug proceeds through the importation of electronics and other goods. A search of his residence led to the recovery of multiple Nigerian international passports and illicit substances.
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Jeff’s arrest is seen as a significant breakthrough in the NDLEA’s efforts to dismantle drug trafficking syndicates operating within the country.
Marwa assured that the NDLEA will continue to work with international partners to ensure that Nigeria does not serve as a base for international drug trafficking operations.
The NDLEA alleges that Jeff’s illicit drug trafficking activities are valued at over N1.4 billion.
The agency’s investigation revealed that Jeff had been orchestrating his operations remotely, giving instructions to drug mules and domestic suppliers who are members of his syndicate spread across several African countries.