The National Intelligence Service (NIS) of South Korea has applauded Nigeria’s National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for its outstanding professionalism in capturing 59-year-old drug kingpin, Kevin Jeff.
The suspect, who had operated covertly for 17 years, smuggling narcotics worth billions of naira globally, was arrested by NDLEA operatives in Lagos this February.
A delegation from the Korean Intelligence Service paid a courtesy visit to the NDLEA Chairman, retired Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa, on Wednesday in Abuja to express their appreciation.
According to a statement by Femi Babafemi, NDLEA’s Director of Media and Advocacy, the Korean officials delivered a letter of commendation from the NIS Director, Taeyong Cho, to Marwa.
Jeff had long been a target for South Korean authorities due to repeated drug shipments traced to him. In response, Interpol issued a red notice, and the Korean agency enlisted NDLEA’s assistance in tracking him down.
He had previously served a one-year sentence in Korea in 2007 for drug offences before being deported to Nigeria in 2008. On Wednesday, February 12, NDLEA’s Special Operations Unit apprehended him at his Lagos hideout located at No. 3, Ibukunoluwa Taiwo Close, off LASU Road.
In his letter, Cho expressed gratitude for Marwa’s unwavering cooperation, stating: “Kevin Jeff was responsible for smuggling significant quantities of narcotics into the Republic of Korea, and the NIS had been tracking him for years. I am truly pleased that our two services have successfully carried out the first special cooperation, enabling us to bring him to justice.”
“Without the NDLEA’s invaluable cooperation, those long-standing efforts might have been in vain. Once again, I extend my deepest gratitude for the NDLEA’s exemplary service in this cooperation,” he added.
The NIS team, which included Choi Younkwan and Kim Juseok, also initiated discussions for the extradition of Jeff to face charges in South Korea.
In response, Marwa thanked the Korean team for their recognition and reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to the global war on drugs: “We’re delighted to partner with you and be of service to you because your Service has a long history of professionalism. At any time, you can count on us to work together with you towards a drug-free world.”
He also acknowledged Korea’s donation of equipment to NDLEA, noting that it would significantly aid their operations. Regarding the extradition request, Marwa said it would be reviewed in line with Nigerian laws and existing bilateral agreements.
He also expressed interest in future training opportunities for NDLEA officers at Korean intelligence institutions.
(NAN)