The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has apprehended a 58-year-old suspected drug kingpin, Uzoma Ilomuanya, bringing to an end a 15-year manhunt spanning Nigeria and the United Kingdom.
Ilomuanya was arrested in Lagos on February 23, 2026, in what authorities described as a high-risk, intelligence-led operation conducted by the agency’s Special Operations Unit. His capture marks a significant breakthrough in ongoing efforts to dismantle transnational drug trafficking networks operating through Nigeria.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, NDLEA spokesperson Femi Babafemi detailed Ilomuanya’s long history with narcotics offences. In February 2003, he was convicted in the United Kingdom for drug trafficking and sentenced to nine years’ imprisonment. Although he was released after serving two years following a successful appeal, authorities allege that he resumed involvement in illicit drug activities shortly thereafter.
By July 2011, he was again arrested in the UK on drug-related charges. However, after being granted administrative bail, he absconded and returned to Nigeria, triggering a protracted pursuit by both British and Nigerian law enforcement agencies.
The case gained renewed momentum in November 2018 when NDLEA operatives uncovered two clandestine methamphetamine laboratories allegedly linked to Ilomuanya. The facilities were located in Obinugwu, Orlu Local Government Area of Imo State, and at his Lagos residence. During the operation, officers reportedly seized 77.960 kilogrammes of methamphetamine along with specialised production equipment, suggesting a well-organised and industrial-scale operation.
Ilomuanya was subsequently arraigned before a Federal High Court in Lagos but allegedly jumped bail once more and went into hiding until his recent arrest.
Reacting to the development, NDLEA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Mohamed Buba Marwa, described the arrest as a major milestone in the agency’s intensified campaign against drug cartels.
“This arrest sends a clear signal that no individual can evade justice indefinitely,” Marwa said, stressing that Nigeria would not serve as a safe haven for international drug traffickers. He added that the agency would continue to strengthen intelligence-sharing mechanisms and collaboration with global partners to combat cross-border narcotics crimes.
The NDLEA said further legal proceedings are underway.
