On Friday, Justice Musa Kakaki of the Lagos Federal High Court is set to deliver a ruling regarding a request from the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA). The agency is seeking permission to demolish a secret methamphetamine manufacturing site located in the forests of Ijebu East, Ogun State.
This decision follows an on-site hearing at the facility in Mowe village, where officials had previously intercepted over 2,400 kilograms of methamphetamine, estimated to be worth more than N480 billion. Ten individuals—three Mexican citizens and seven Nigerians—were arraigned on July 10 on 11 counts related to the operation of this site.
The defendants, including Juan Carlos Torrero, Nemecio Felix, and Jesus Valles, face accusations of manufacturing dangerous substances and managing a drug trafficking network. Prosecutors allege that the group utilized several vehicles, including a Toyota Tacoma and Mercedes-Benz, to transport essential chemicals like toluene and hydrochloric acid to the secluded location for illicit production.
During the most recent court session, forensic expert Ajilema Anebi presented evidence concerning the seized equipment and chemicals, confirming that the site was equipped for large-scale drug manufacturing intended for international markets. While the defense team, led by Chief Benson Ndakara, challenged the admissibility of some evidence, the court has reserved its decision on the destruction of the site for July 24.
