By Erewunmi Peace

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has arrested a 40-year-old wanted drug kingpin, Yussuf Abayomi Azeez, at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos, while attempting to board a flight to Saudi Arabia for the lesser Hajj (Umrah).

According to a statement by Femi Babafemi, NDLEA’s Director of Media and Advocacy, the suspect was previously declared wanted for allegedly operating a major drug syndicate that produces and distributes synthetic cannabis, popularly known as Colorado, across Lagos and other parts of Nigeria.

Following his arrest at the Lagos airport, NDLEA operatives carried out a follow-up operation that led to the discovery and dismantling of a clandestine drug laboratory located at 17 Vincent Eku Street, Ogombo, Lekki. Inside the facility, agents recovered 148.3 kilograms of processed Colorado and various precursor chemicals used in its production.

“The arrest of the wanted suspect and the dismantling of his illicit drug laboratory is a major breakthrough in our ongoing efforts to curb the production and distribution of synthetic drugs in Nigeria,” Babafemi stated.

He added that the suspect, who had previously faced drug-related charges in the United Kingdom and reportedly jumped bail before returning to Nigeria, was under close surveillance before being apprehended on Sunday.

NDLEA Chairman Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Retd.) commended the agency’s officers for their swift and coordinated operation, reaffirming the NDLEA’s commitment to dismantling drug networks and protecting communities from the dangers of illicit substances.

“This operation is another strong message to drug cartels that no matter how long it takes, we will track you down, wherever you are,” Marwa said.

The suspect remains in NDLEA custody as investigations continue, with the agency vowing to prosecute all individuals connected to the seized laboratory.