The National Intelligence Service (NIS) of the Republic of Korea has applauded the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for the arrest of a 59-year-old drug kingpin, Ogbonnaya Kevin Jeff, who had evaded justice for 17 years while trafficking illicit drugs across international borders.
Ogbonnaya, who previously served a one-year jail term in South Korea in 2007 and was deported to Nigeria in 2008, was arrested by NDLEA operatives on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, at his hideout located at No. 3, Ibukunoluwa Taiwo Close, off LASU Road, Lagos. He had been on Interpol’s red notice watchlist due to his persistent involvement in drug trafficking, particularly targeting South Korea.
A delegation from the Korean Intelligence Service visited the NDLEA headquarters in Abuja on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, to commend the agency and officially request the extradition of the suspect to South Korea, where he faces pending drug charges.
During the visit, the Korean delegation delivered a letter of appreciation from the Director of NIS, Taeyong Cho, who praised the NDLEA’s “exceptional cooperation” and described the arrest as a significant success in international anti-narcotics operations.
“Kevin Jeff was responsible for smuggling significant quantities of narcotics into the Republic of Korea. I am truly pleased that our two services have successfully carried out this first special cooperation, enabling us to bring him to justice,” the NIS Director stated.
In response, NDLEA Chairman/Chief Executive, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), expressed gratitude for the commendation and reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to global efforts in combating drug trafficking.
“We’re delighted to partner with you and be of service. Your Service has a long-standing reputation for professionalism, and you can always count on our cooperation in building a drug-free world,” Marwa said.
He also thanked the Korean government for donating equipment to the agency, noting that the support would greatly enhance the NDLEA’s operations. On the extradition request, Marwa assured that the matter would be considered within the confines of Nigerian laws and existing bilateral agreements.
He further expressed hope for extended cooperation, including training opportunities for NDLEA personnel at Korean intelligence institutions.
