The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has successfully dismantled a major drug cartel operating in Imo and Rivers States. The leader of the syndicate, Joachin Chikaodi Mbonu (42), was apprehended at his village mansion in Imo on July 5th, 2024, along with an accomplice.

Mbonu, a Notorious Figure

Mbonu, a wanted drug baron, is believed to be the mastermind behind the production and distribution of methamphetamine, also known as “mkpuru mmiri,” in the South East, South South, and other regions of Nigeria. The agency had been tracking the cartel for some time based on intelligence reports linking them to significant methamphetamine distribution activities.

Raid Yields Drugs, Weapons, and Precursor Chemicals

During the operation, NDLEA operatives seized a significant amount of evidence, including:

• 419.99 grams of methamphetamine
• 750 grams of iodine (precursor chemical)
• 500 grams of sodium bicarbonate (precursor chemical)
• Two electronic weighing scales
• A pump action gun with four cartridges

Further Raids Target Associates’ Hideouts

The agency’s pursuit extended to residences linked to Mbonu’s associates in both Imo and Rivers States. These raids yielded additional illicit substances:

• 750 grams of processed sodium bicarbonate
• 170 grams of plain sodium bicarbonate
• 75 grams of methamphetamine
• Another pump action gun with 25 cartridges

Assets Seized, Investigation Continues

Two of Mbonu’s mansions in Imo have been flagged for potential forfeiture to the federal government. Investigations are ongoing to apprehend Odoemenam Pedro Chinedu, another associate currently at large.

Mbonu’s International Past

Authorities revealed that Mbonu had fled South Africa, where he allegedly honed his methamphetamine production skills after facing drug trafficking investigations. Upon returning to Nigeria, he established clandestine labs in remote villages to conceal his criminal activities.

Stronger Communities, Safer Nation

The NDLEA’s successful operation highlights their commitment to dismantling drug cartels and safeguarding Nigerian communities. This arrest disrupts a major source of methamphetamine and serves as a deterrent to other criminal organizations.