By Amina Ojelabi
The Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone C of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Owerri, has intercepted a major consignment of illicit drugs, including 151 wraps of Cannabis Sativa weighing 77,500 grams and 15 wraps of Canadian Loud weighing 8,600 grams.
According to the Unit Controller, Comptroller Bishir Balogun, the substances were intercepted during a routine patrol following credible intelligence. The contraband, cleverly concealed to evade detection, was discovered through the vigilance and professionalism of his officers.
Speaking on Friday, November 14, Balogun described the operation as a testament to the unit’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s borders and shielding communities from the scourge of drug trafficking. He commended the officers for their diligence, noting that the successful interception dealt a significant blow to criminal networks operating within the zone.
The seized items have since been handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further investigation and necessary action. Balogun said the handover underscores the strong inter-agency collaboration championed by the Federal Government, reaffirming NDLEA’s mandate as the lead agency in drug-related enforcement.
“The Nigeria Customs Service, under the leadership of the Comptroller-General, remains committed to keeping our borders secure and preventing harmful substances from reaching our communities,” he said. “We will continue to work closely with the NDLEA and other sister agencies to ensure justice is served and illicit trade is suppressed.”
Balogun also expressed gratitude to the Comptroller-General of Customs for the continuous support extended to the unit, while applauding the dedication of FOU Zone C officers whose resilience has strengthened the fight against smuggling.
He reiterated that the NCS will not relent in fulfilling its statutory responsibilities revenue generation, anti-smuggling operations, and trade facilitation while deepening collaboration with partner agencies to promote national security.
The handover of the drugs marks another significant stride in the joint fight against narcotics trafficking and cross-border crime in Nigeria.
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