The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has arraigned a 63-year-old drug baron, Anochili Innocent, three Mexican nationals, and six other Nigerians for drug-related offences.The suspects were charged with setting up a clandestine methamphetamine lab producing 2,419.48kg of the drug worth over N480bn.The operation, uncovered in Mowe village, Ogun State, involved coordinated raids by NDLEA operatives between May 16-18, 2026.The defendants include Mexican experts in meth production and key members of the syndicate.The 11-count charge alleges conspiracy to establish the lab, violation of NDLEA Act sections, and unlawful transportation of precursor chemicals.All ten defendants pleaded not guilty, with the case adjourned for further hearings.The NDLEA emphasized the transnational nature of drug trafficking networks exploiting Nigeria as a manufacturing hub.

The arrest marks a significant dismantling of an industrial-scale narcotics operation, highlighting the agency's commitment to combating drug cartels.