Barely five days after the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) uncovered 25.5kg of cocaine aboard a Brazilian-flagged vessel, the two agencies have recorded another major breakthrough. This time, operatives intercepted a fresh consignment of Canadian Loud, a high-value, premium strain of cannabis, ingeniously concealed inside imported vehicles. The coordinated operation further highlights the tightening security measures at Nigeria’s ports and the strengthened synergy between both agencies in combating transnational drug trafficking.
In a statement issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, CSC Isah Sulaiman, the agency confirmed that a joint operation between the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) led to the discovery of a massive consignment of illicit drugs. Acting on credible intelligence supplied by the NDLEA, operatives of both agencies successfully uncovered 2,374 parcels of cannabis carefully concealed inside 55 jumbo bags hidden within a 1×20ft container (No. FCIU 6369526).
The container, which was declared to be carrying two imported vehicles, was discreetly used as cover to smuggle the narcotics. Upon thorough examination, the concealed drugs were uncovered, weighing a total of 1,187 kilogrammes.
Both agencies, in the course of joint examination, discovered the seizure which has been taken into the custody of the NDLEA. A breakdown of the drugs indicates that they were packed in 500 grams per sachet
Speaking on the seizure, Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba, Customs Area Controller of Apapa Port Command, commended the robust synergy between the NCS and NDLEA while reiterating the service zero tolerance for smuggling.
“Few days ago, I stated that no consignment will exit our control from this port without due check. Our synergy as agencies of government will always put us ahead of criminal elements.
“No matter the volume of trade we are processing, we will never sacrifice national security and economy for any form of trade. While we are focused on collecting maximum revenue for government, our eagle eyed officers are activated to be alert at all times.
“Let me warn, once again for the umpteenth time, any trader- importer, exporter, freight forwarder or licensed customs agent that dares our resolve this Yuletide season and beyond ,will face the full wrath of the law. Investigations are ongoing on this seizure and we shall bring the perpetrators to book” Comptroller Oshoba said.