The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Apapa Area Command, has intercepted Cannabis Indica valued at ₦26.57 billion concealed inside a container carrying imported used vehicles at the Lagos Port, in one of the command’s biggest anti narcotics operations.
The seizure was made during a joint examination conducted by officers of the Apapa Area Command and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) following credible intelligence.
Addressing journalists, the Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba, said the operation underscored the command’s unwavering commitment to protecting Nigeria’s borders from illicit trade and dangerous narcotics.
According to him, the container, identified as FANU1933352, was flagged for intensive examination after actionable intelligence suggested it contained prohibited items.
The search uncovered three used vehicles comprising a 2015 Red Nissan Micra, a 2019 Black Toyota Corolla S, and a 2015 Gray Toyota Corolla.
Further examination revealed 162 bags containing 8,287 parcels of Cannabis Indica, with each parcel weighing 500 grams, bringing the total weight of the narcotics to 4,143.5 kilograms.
Customs officials disclosed that four bags of the illicit substance were carefully concealed inside the Nissan Micra, while the remaining 158 bags were hidden beneath the container floor and in spaces between the three vehicles.
No prohibited substances were discovered inside the Toyota Corolla S or the Gray Toyota Corolla during the comprehensive inspection.
Comptroller Oshoba said the seizure reflected the effectiveness of intelligence driven enforcement and the growing collaboration between the Nigeria Customs Service and the NDLEA in combating transnational drug trafficking.
He stressed that the command remained committed to implementing the zero tolerance policy of the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, against smuggling and other forms of illicit trade through Nigeria’s seaports.
The Area Controller assured legitimate importers and licensed customs agents that the command would continue to promote seamless cargo clearance while taking decisive action against individuals attempting to abuse the nation’s trade channels.
He commended officers involved in the operation for their professionalism, vigilance and dedication, describing the successful interception as another major victory in safeguarding national security and public health.
Oshoba also disclosed that investigations had commenced to identify those behind the attempted importation, promising that everyone connected with the shipment would face the full weight of the law.
He reaffirmed that Apapa Port would remain inaccessible to smugglers and criminal networks seeking to import prohibited goods into the country, insisting that lawful trade remained the command’s priority.
In line with the provisions of the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023 and other relevant laws, the Customs Area Controller ordered the seizure and detention of the 40 foot container as investigations continue.