The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has arrested 58-year-old fugitive drug suspect Uzoma Valentine Ilomuanya, who had been on the wanted list of both Nigerian and British authorities for more than 15 years.
The development was disclosed in a statement issued to Naija News on Wednesday and signed by the agency’s Director of Media & Advocacy, Femi Babafemi.
Ilomuanya was apprehended in Lagos on Monday, 23rd February 2026, during what officials described as a high-risk, carefully coordinated operation carried out by officers from the agency’s Special Operations Unit.
His arrest brings to a close a prolonged pursuit by law enforcement agencies, following years of alleged involvement in drug-related activities spanning Nigeria and the United Kingdom. Authorities say his record reflects sustained participation in international narcotics trafficking.
Ilomuanya was first arrested in February 2003 in the UK, where he was convicted for drug trafficking and sentenced to nine years in prison. However, he was released after serving two years following a successful appeal. In July 2011, he was again arrested in the UK over drug-related offences. Though granted administrative bail, he reportedly absconded and returned to Nigeria.
In November 2018, NDLEA operatives arrested him in Nigeria after uncovering two clandestine methamphetamine laboratories — one located at his country home in Obinugwu, Orlu Local Government Area of Imo State, and another at No. 3 Barrister Declan Uzoma Close, Lagos. During the operation, officers recovered 77.960 kilograms of methamphetamine along with extensive production equipment.
He was subsequently arraigned before a Federal High Court in Lagos but later jumped bail and had remained at large until his recent arrest.
Reacting to the breakthrough, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), described the arrest as a major success in the agency’s sustained crackdown on drug trafficking networks.
According to him, “This arrest serves as a stern warning to those who think they can hide behind borders to escape justice. Whether you jump bail in London or set up clandestine labs in your village, the long arm of the NDLEA will eventually catch up with those who choose to undermine the health, security, and future of our nation.
“We remain committed to our international collaborations to ensure that Nigeria is not used as a sanctuary for global drug lords. The NDLEA under our watch will continue to strengthen intelligence-led operations, deepen international cooperation, and ensure that those involved in the illicit drug trade are brought to justice.”
Marwa also commended the officers of the Special Operations Unit for their professionalism and persistence in tracking down the suspect, reaffirming the agency’s determination to dismantle drug trafficking syndicates operating within Nigeria.
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