A major operation by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has uncovered what authorities describe as a sophisticated drug manufacturing network hidden deep inside a forest in Oyo State.
The discovery has raised concerns about the growing efforts of international drug syndicates to establish production bases in Nigeria.
The forest location, far from busy cities and public attention, was allegedly being used as a secret center for the production of methamphetamine.
Security experts say the development highlights the changing tactics of drug traffickers seeking to avoid detection.
Operatives of the NDLEA raided the site at Tapa Village in Ibarapa North Local Government Area of Oyo State. During the operation, five suspects were arrested.
Among those apprehended was 56-year-old Mexican citizen Jose Villa Ochoa. Authorities identified him as a methamphetamine production specialist allegedly recruited to oversee large-scale manufacturing activities.
Four Nigerians were also arrested during the operation. They were identified as Maxwell Uche Nevoh, Olatunji Yusuf, Bankole Akeem Owolabi, and Ganiu Monsiu.
According to the agency, the raid exposed a well-organized criminal network operating in a remote forest environment. Moreover, investigators discovered equipment and chemicals believed to have been used for the production of synthetic drugs.
The operation came barely one month after another methamphetamine laboratory was dismantled in Ogun State. Consequently, concerns have grown over attempts to turn parts of Southwest Nigeria into a hub for synthetic drug production.
Speaking during a press briefing in Abuja, NDLEA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), spoke through the agency’s Director of Media and Advocacy, Femi Babafemi.
According to the agency, several items were recovered from the forest laboratory. These included reactor pots, condensers, distillation units, mixers, and drying machines.
In addition, drums containing phenylacetic acid and other chemical substances linked to methamphetamine production were recovered. The equipment was allegedly used to process and package the illegal substance.
Investigators said the scale of the operation suggested careful planning and significant financial backing. Furthermore, the presence of a foreign expert pointed to possible international links within the criminal network.
The drug factory bust is being viewed as one of the agency’s most significant operations this year.
Meanwhile, authorities have intensified investigations to identify other individuals connected to the operation. Additional arrests may be made as the investigation progresses.
Warning criminal organizations against using Nigeria as a base for illegal activities, the NDLEA delivered a strong message to traffickers.
“We will find you in the cities, track you into the forests, and dismantle your infrastructure of death.”
The agency maintained that it remains committed to targeting drug cartels regardless of where they operate. Therefore, surveillance and intelligence-driven operations are expected to continue across different parts of the country.
