The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has intensified its crackdown on drug trafficking networks by declaring an alleged drug kingpin, Nnamuka Uchenna, popularly known as “Odogwu,” and three of his associates wanted over their alleged involvement in a large-scale methamphetamine operation in Imo State. The move follows a Federal High Court order obtained by the agency as part of ongoing efforts to dismantle one of the suspected drug syndicates operating in the country.
According to the NDLEA, the wanted suspects include Emmanuella Chinonso Iroka, Nnamuka Ifeanyi Kingsley, and Ekechi Franklin Chijioke, also known as Ekene Okwunaga. The agency revealed that the court order was granted after investigations linked the four individuals to a clandestine methamphetamine laboratory discovered in Isiozi, Umuaka, within Njaba Local Government Area of Imo State earlier this year.
The breakthrough came after NDLEA operatives raided the facility on February 25, 2026, recovering 18.4 kilograms of methamphetamine along with several other incriminating exhibits. Investigators say subsequent intelligence gathering and forensic analysis connected the suspects to the illegal drug production site. However, authorities disclosed that all four suspects have since gone into hiding, prompting the public declaration and manhunt.
In a major development, the NDLEA announced that forensic financial investigations led to the freezing of bank accounts allegedly linked to the syndicate, containing a combined balance of over N9.84 billion. The agency also secured interim forfeiture orders on several assets believed to have been acquired through proceeds of drug trafficking, including a filling station, multi-storey residential properties, and four luxury Sport Utility Vehicles.
Reacting to the operation, NDLEA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, retired Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa, described the case as a clear demonstration of the agency’s commitment to attacking both the operational and financial foundations of drug trafficking networks. He assured Nigerians that the agency would continue using advanced forensic and financial intelligence tools to track down the fleeing suspects and their collaborators, while urging members of the public to provide credible information that could assist in their arrest.
source: punch
