Judge visists, conducts hard drugs suspects’ trial at vast methamphetamine laboratory site in Ogun

Justice Musa Kakaki of the Federal High Court in Lagos conducted an inspection of a clandestine laboratory in Ogun State, the alleged site where 10 defendants produced and stored significant quantities of methamphetamine. The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) brought the charges against the defendants, who include three Mexican nationals and seven Nigerians.

The inspection was part of the ongoing trial, with the court examining the facility where the alleged illicit drug operation took place. The NDLEA prosecution, led by Adekunle Adebajo, presented evidence and testimony from an expert in clandestine laboratories, Ajilema Anebi. Mr. Anebi testified about the substances and equipment recovered from the facility, stating they were used in the production and storage of methamphetamine intended for export.

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The substances recovered from the facility were used in the production and storage of large quantities of methamphetamine allegedly intended for export outside Nigeria.

During cross-examination by defense lawyer Benson Ndakara, questions arose about the physical identification and use of the items found at the premises. The defense insisted on a physical demonstration at the site, which the judge ultimately allowed. Mr. Anebi then guided the judge and lawyers around the laboratory, explaining the alleged relevance of various chemicals, machines, and bags to the production process, including the use of alcohol and hydrochloric acid.

The court adjourned further hearings following the inspection of the laboratory, the locus in quo, where the alleged criminal activities occurred. The trial continues to unfold with detailed examination of the evidence presented by the prosecution and scrutiny from the defense.

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The witness should show the items to the court rather than simply refer to exhibits that had previously been tendered.