UK-Wanted Drug Lord Nabbed After 15 Years
Last update: March 4, 2026
Disclaimer: This website may contain affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission if you click on the link and make a purchase. We only recommend products or services that we personally use and believe will add value to our readers. Your support is appreciated!
Ilomuanya arrested in Lagos after 15 years on the run from Nigerian and UK authorities...
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has arrested a 58-year-old fugitive drug lord, Uzoma Valentine Ilomuanya, who had been on the wanted list of both Nigerian and United Kingdom authorities for over 15 years.
Ilomuanya was apprehended in Lagos on Monday, February 23, 2026, following what the agency described as a high-level coordinated operation conducted by its Special Operations Unit.
CBI News reports that his arrest marks the end of a long period on the run after multiple drug-related convictions and investigations spanning Nigeria and the UK.
According to records, he was first arrested in February 2003 in the United Kingdom and convicted for drug trafficking, receiving a nine-year sentence before being released on appeal after serving two years.
He was again arrested in July 2011 in the UK for drug-related offences but was granted administrative bail.
Authorities say he fled to Nigeria while on bail.
In November 2018, NDLEA operatives arrested him in Nigeria after discovering two clandestine methamphetamine laboratories one at his residence in Obinugwu, Orlu Local Government Area of Imo State, and another at his property in Lagos. Officers reportedly recovered 77.960 kilograms of methamphetamine and production equipment from the locations.
He was subsequently charged before a Federal High Court in Lagos but allegedly jumped bail and remained at large until his recent arrest.
Reacting to the development, NDLEA Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), described the arrest as a major breakthrough in the fight against drug cartels.
“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,” Marwa said.
He added that the agency remains committed to international cooperation and intelligence-led operations to prevent Nigeria from becoming a safe haven for global drug traffickers.
Marwa also commended officers of the Special Operations Unit for their professionalism and dedication in tracking down the fugitive, reaffirming the agency’s resolve to dismantle drug trafficking networks operating within the country.
