The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has dismantled a large-scale methamphetamine production facility hidden within a forest in Oyo State, leading to the arrest of a Mexican national and four Nigerian suspects allegedly involved in the operation.
The agency described the discovery as a significant victory in its ongoing efforts to combat illicit drug manufacturing and trafficking networks operating within the country.
According to NDLEA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Brigadier General Buba Marwa (retd.), the operation was carried out following intelligence reports that led operatives to a secluded location in Tapa Village, Ibarapa North Local Government Area of Oyo State.
Marwa explained that officers raided the site on June 17, uncovering what he described as a sophisticated and highly organized drug-production facility concealed deep within the forest.
Among those arrested was Jose Villa Ochoa, a 56-year-old Mexican national believed to possess expertise in methamphetamine production. Four Nigerian suspects were also apprehended during the operation.
The NDLEA said the presence of a foreign suspect highlights the international nature of drug trafficking networks attempting to establish production bases in Nigeria.
Investigators who examined the facility reportedly discovered an extensive manufacturing setup equipped with industrial-grade machinery, chemical processing equipment, and large quantities of substances used in the production of methamphetamine.
Recovered materials included precursor chemicals, industrial catalysts, and various compounds commonly associated with synthetic drug production. Authorities also found processing equipment such as reactors, distillation units, mixers, condensers, and drying machines used in the manufacture of narcotics.
Preliminary forensic analysis conducted at the scene reportedly confirmed the presence of methamphetamine among substances recovered from the laboratory.
The agency stated that all exhibits and chemical materials found at the site have been secured and documented as part of preparations for prosecution.
NDLEA officials described the operation as another major setback for criminal groups attempting to establish synthetic drug manufacturing hubs within the South-West region.
The agency noted that the latest discovery comes only weeks after another large methamphetamine laboratory was dismantled in Ogun State, where several suspects, including foreign nationals, were arrested and large quantities of narcotics and precursor chemicals seized.
According to the NDLEA, the repeated discoveries suggest an increasing effort by international and local drug syndicates to expand illicit drug production operations within the region.
Authorities reaffirmed their commitment to identifying, disrupting, and prosecuting individuals involved in the production and distribution of illegal drugs across the country.
