In a decisive operation ahead of the Yuletide celebrations, the Western Marine Command of the Nigeria Customs Service has intercepted 15 sacks containing 1,021 loaves of Cannabis Sativa, weighing a total of 538kg. The illicit consignment, with a Duty Paid Value (DPV) of N107,205,000, was seized on December 16, 2024, along the Ajido waterways in the Yekeme axis of the Command.

The interception occurred after the suspected smugglers grounded their boat to offload the items. However, upon sighting the vigilant Marine officers, they abandoned the contraband and fled the scene. Despite a hostile environment, the Customs Patrol Team successfully retrieved the sacks, transferred them into official patrol boats, and transported them to the Command Headquarters for further investigation.

The Customs Area Controller of the Western Marine Command, Comptroller Paul Bamisaiye, attributed the success to the support of the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC) and his management team. Their provision of critical resources and equipment has bolstered the Command’s anti-smuggling operations, ensuring smugglers find no refuge on Nigeria’s waterways.

Speaking on the readiness of the Command for the festive season, Comptroller Bamisaiye assured that strategies had been strengthened to counter any nefarious smuggling attempts. “The Western Marine Command is committed to maintaining secure waterways during this critical period to facilitate legitimate trade,” he said.

The Command further warned unpatriotic individuals who often exploit the holiday season for smuggling activities, reiterating its zero-tolerance stance.

The Nigeria Customs Service continues its dedication to safeguarding the nation’s waterways, fostering an environment conducive to lawful trade, and ensuring the security of the maritime sector.