The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have intercepted a fresh consignment of 1,187kg of Cannabis Loud concealed inside two vehicles imported through the Apapa Port.
The illicit shipment, packed inside a 1x20ft container (No. FCIU 6369526), was uncovered on Thursday during a joint operation driven by actionable intelligence from the NDLEA. The discovery comes just five days after both agencies seized 25.5kg of cocaine aboard a Brazilian vessel, reinforcing the tightening security at Nigeria’s busiest port.
According to officials, the container held 2,374 sachets of cannabis each measuring 500 grams stuffed into 55 bags, indicating an elaborate smuggling network. The drugs have since been handed over to the NDLEA for further investigation.
Speaking on the operation, Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba, Customs Area Controller, Apapa Command, praised the growing synergy between the NCS and NDLEA, noting that the collaboration continues to frustrate organised smuggling rings.
“A few days ago, I said no consignment will exit our control without proper checks,” Oshoba stated. “Our synergy will always put us ahead of criminal elements. We will not compromise national security for trade volume.”
He warned importers, exporters, freight forwarders and licensed agents against attempting illicit shipments during the festive season and beyond, insisting that offenders will face the full weight of the law.
“Let me warn again: anyone who dares our resolve this Yuletide season will face the consequences,” he said. “Investigations are ongoing, and perpetrators will be brought to justice.”
The statement was issued by CSC Isah Sulaiman, Public Relations Officer, Apapa Command.
Authorities say the back-to-back seizures of cannabis and cocaine represent a major disruption of drug trafficking activities, reinforcing the agencies’ commitment to protecting national security and the economy. The public is encouraged to support efforts aimed at combating smuggling and other economic crimes.
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