NDLEA and US-DEA dismantle transnational network linked to hotels in Delta, Abuja and billions in assets
“Nigeria won’t be a sanctuary for drug cartels,” Marwa warns
A joint operation by the NDLEA, US-DEA, and law enforcement in Switzerland, France, and Greece has broken up a transnational criminal network laundering hundreds of billions of naira in drug proceeds across Europe and Nigeria.
The coordinated arrests happened on Tuesday, 28 April 2026.
Who was arrested:
- Amadi Simon, the alleged billionaire drug baron, picked up in Switzerland
- Jecinta Amara Ikechi, 34, arrested in Anambra State
- Blessing Ngozi Amadi, 28, arrested in Agbor, Delta State
The arrests followed months of intelligence work across multiple countries linking the suspects to large-scale money laundering from drug and financial crimes.
Assets and properties seized
Investigators traced a web of front companies, shell firms, and both traditional and crypto accounts used to hide illicit funds. Assets linked to Amadi’s network in Nigeria include:
- Jovi Hotel, 1 Isiayei Street, GRA Phase 1, Asaba, Delta State
- Jovi Hotel and Suites, 4 Orikeze by Deeper Life Road, Agbor, Delta State
- Jovi Apartment, Jamieson Court, Mabushi, Abuja
Several bank accounts and cryptocurrency addresses tied to the syndicate have also been identified and blocked.
“Zero tolerance” message
NDLEA Chairman, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), said the operation sends a clear message:
“The NDLEA maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward crimes that jeopardize the safety of Nigerians, the integrity of our national reputation, and the stability of our economy.”
Marwa thanked the US-DEA and the US Mission to Nigeria for support in training, intelligence sharing, evidence collection, and equipment. He said the agency will expand cooperation with international partners.
“The NDLEA remains relentless in pursuing those involved in narcotics trafficking and financial crimes, no matter where they hide,” Marwa said. “Nigeria will not be a haven for drug traffickers or a sanctuary for their criminal proceeds.”
Source: Femi Babafemi
