President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commended the leadership and staff of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for an extraordinary breakthrough in smashing a notorious Nigerian-Mexican syndicate. The high-stakes operation effectively dismantled a highly sophisticated, multi-million-dollar illicit drug production network operating within the country.
NDLEA Chairman Brig. Gen. Mohammed Buba Marwa (Rtd) unveiled the massive international drug bust after a weeks-long sting operation. The historic takedown relied on deep intelligence gathering and precise tactical planning by agency operatives alongside global partners.
In a State House press release issued on Thursday, May 21, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, stated that President Tinubu highly commended the breakthrough, emphasizing:
“This successful operation, which led to the arrest of foreign nationals, local kingpins and other collaborators, as well as the seizure of chemicals and illicit drugs valued at over $360 million, demonstrates exceptional professionalism, courage, and unwavering commitment to safeguarding society from the devastating effects of narcotics.”
“I commend the bravery, resilience, and dedication displayed by operatives of the NDLEA throughout this mission. I urge them not to be complacent in confronting the menace of drug trafficking.
“West Africa has become a great concern in the global war against narcotics as drug barons turn our region into a transit hub for moving cocaine, synthetic drugs and unregulated pharmaceuticals to Europe and North America.
“Drugs not only pose a critical security threat for our region, but they also pose a grave danger to the future of our youth, some of whom have become victims of the trade.
“I call on all Nigerians to see the fight against illicit drugs not NDLEA’s alone. Everyone has a role to play. We must remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities within our communities to assist security agencies in combating criminal networks.
“This landmark success is a strong message that our security agencies will not tolerate organised crime and criminality anywhere in the country, and that those who threaten public safety and national security will face the wrath of the law.”
