Operatives from Nigeria's anti-narcotics agency have busted a major drug-smuggling ring operating across three continents. The NDLEA worked alongside American, Swiss, French, and Greek authorities to dismantle the network.
An alleged billionaire trafficker named Amadi Simon was arrested in Switzerland. Two women—Jecinta Amara Ikechi, 34, and Blessing Ngozi Amadi, 28—were also taken into custody.
Ikechi was nabbed in Anambra State on April 28, 2026. Blessing Amadi was captured in Agbor, Delta State, during the same coordinated sweep.
NDLEA spokesman Femi Babafemi made the announcement on Thursday. He said the arrests capped months of cross-border investigations and intelligence work.
Authorities believe the trio laundered hundreds of billions of naira through European and Nigerian channels. Their operation involved shell companies, fake identities, and cryptocurrency accounts.
Babafemi noted that investigators traced multiple high-value properties to the criminal network. These assets were allegedly purchased with drug money.
Three hotels bear the Jovi name across Nigeria. One sits on Isiayei Street in Asaba's GRA Phase 1 area.
A second Jovi property operates in Agbor near Deeper Life Road. A third apartment complex is located at Jamieson Court in Mabushi, Abuja.
Authorities have frozen numerous bank accounts linked to the suspects. Cryptocurrency wallets tied to the cartel have also been blocked.
NDLEA Chairman Mohamed Buba Marwa praised the operation's success. He called it proof of the agency's commitment to fighting drug trafficking.
According to Marwa, the arrests send a clear message to criminals. Nigeria won't tolerate drug barons or their financial schemes, he stressed.
Marwa commended the US-DEA and other international law enforcement bodies. He said their partnership strengthened intelligence gathering and tactical coordination.
The operation demonstrates how countries can work together effectively. Intelligence sharing between nations proved critical to the investigation's outcome.
"The NDLEA remains relentless in pursuing those involved in narcotics trafficking," Marwa stated. He promised the agency would intensify cooperation with foreign partners.
Transnational organised crime poses serious threats to Nigeria's economy and security. The agency vowed to protect both against international criminal networks.
This bust represents one of the largest drug-money laundering cases in recent years. It underscores how traffickers attempt to hide wealth across multiple countries and continents.
