By ebosele@hotmail.com. —
Barely five days after the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) intercepted 25.5kg of cocaine aboard a Brazilian-flagged vessel, both agencies have recorded yet another major breakthrough—this time uncovering 1,187kg of Canadian Loud, a highly potent strain of cannabis, concealed inside imported vehicles at the Apapa Port, Lagos.
Acting on credible intelligence provided by the NDLEA, officers of both agencies conducted a joint examination that led to the discovery of 2,374 packages of the illicit substance.
The drugs, concealed in 55 bags hidden inside a 1x20ft container (No. FCIU 6369526), were found alongside two imported vehicles. Each sachet was packed in 500-gram portions.
A statement issued on Thursday by CSC Isah Sulaiman, Customs Public Relations Officer, Apapa Port Command explained that the seized consignment has since been handed over to the NDLEA as investigations intensify to track down the syndicate behind the illicit shipment.
Speaking on the development, Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba, Customs Area Controller, Apapa Port Command, commended the strong collaboration between the NCS and NDLEA, stressing that the port would remain a no-go area for criminals attempting to undermine national security.
“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,” he said.
“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.”
The Customs chief issued a stern warning to importers, exporters, freight forwarders, and licensed customs agents, cautioning them against attempting to violate port regulations during the Yuletide season and beyond.
“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,” Oshoba added.
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