By our reporter 7.5.2026
Nigeria’s National Drug Law Enforcement Agency in collaboration with their US counterparts Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) have taken down Amadi Simon a billionaire drug lord and money laundering specialist in a major operation.
Mr. Simon was arrested in Switzerland and his multinational criminal organisation worth several billions was dismantled. According to the NDLEA, the arrest alongside his Nigerian accomplices came after months of investigations and intelligence work into his drug and money laundering operations.
Others arrested include Jecinta Amara Ikechi, 34, and Blessing Ngozi Amadi,28, who were picked up in Anambra and Delta States respectively on April 28, 2026.
“Th arrests followed months of intelligence and investigations across multiple jurisdictions linking Amadi to the laundering of hundreds of billions of Naira in proceeds of drug and financial crimes,” said the NDLEA in a statement.
“In addition to the arrest of the suspects, the NDLEA, in collaboration with its international law enforcement partners, has also traced multi-billion assets linked to Amadi’s transnational criminal network in Nigeria and abroad.
“His operations in Nigeria included a complex scheme of front and shell companies; pass-throughs and delegates; and the use of numerous traditional and cryptocurrency accounts to conceal and launder illicit funds.”
The NDLEA said properties and bank accounts belonging to Mr. Simon believed to be proceeds of his illicit trade have been confiscated they include Jovi Hotel at 1 Isiayei Street GRA Phase 1, Asaba, Delta State; Jovi Hotel and Suites at 4 Orikeze by Deeper Life Road, Agbor, Delta State and Jovi Apartment at Jamieson Court Mabushi, Abuja.
“Also, several bank accounts and cryptocurrency addresses used by the cartel to conceal hundreds of billions of illicit funds have also been identified and blocked.”
NDLEA boss Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), noted that the arrest is clear warning to all drug barons they are not out of reach for the anti-drugs trafficking agency.
“The NDLEA remains relentless in its pursuit of those involved in narcotics trafficking and associated financial crimes, regardless of where they attempt to hide.
“Built upon a foundation of strategic partnership, unwavering integrity, and dedicated professionalism, the NDLEA is committed to ensuring that Nigeria is neither a haven for drug traffickers who profit from illicit substances nor a sanctuary for their criminal proceeds,” Marwa stated.