In a decisive blow against drug trafficking, the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) BEECROFT, through its Quick Response Team (QRT), intercepted a van loaded with 20 bags of suspected cannabis sativa weighing approximately 840 kilograms in the Ijegun area of Lagos.
The operation, conducted in the early hours of Thursday, was based on credible intelligence and supported by internal security personnel from Operation MESA. Upon approaching the scene, the suspects abandoned the foreign-registered van and fled, evading arrest.
The Executive Officer of NNS BEECROFT, Captain Idongesit Udoesien, who represented the Commander of the Base, Commodore Paul Ponfa Nimmyel, confirmed the seizure. He emphasized that the operation is part of ongoing efforts by the Nigerian Navy to curb illicit drug trafficking and bolster maritime security across Lagos State and its coastal communities.
The confiscated vehicle and the cannabis were subsequently handed over to the Commander of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Western Marine Command, Commander Morrison Emmanuel Udo, for further investigation and prosecution.
“This successful interception underscores our unwavering commitment under the leadership of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, to rid our maritime domain of illegal activities,” said Captain Udoesien. “We will continue to intensify intelligence-driven patrols and maintain robust collaboration with sister security agencies.”
Speaking during the handover, NDLEA Marine Commander Udo stated: “Once handed over to me, the exhibit will be documented, investigated, and stored at our central exhibit store. Following court procedures, a destruction order will be obtained for public disposal of the narcotics. Let this serve as a warning to traffickers, if the NDLEA doesn’t get you, the Navy will.”
He also reiterated the multi-agency commitment to tackling drug-related crimes, stressing that any law enforcement body has the authority to intercept and prosecute traffickers.
The Nigerian Navy urged citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities, reaffirming its dedication to safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime environment to ensure socio-economic development can thrive without criminal interference.