By Ebi Kesiena
The Western Marine Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intercepted 53 sacks of cannabis sativa, commonly known as Indian hemp, with an estimated duty-paid value of N398 million.
In a statement released over the weekend, the command’s spokesperson, Lomba Benjamin, reported that the Command Area Controller, Paul Bamisaiye, confirmed the seizure at Ilase Sea Beach, near Lagos.
Bamisaiye explained that the smugglers abandoned their boat and fled into the sea upon spotting customs officers. The abandoned vessel was secured and transported to the command’s office, where it was found to contain 3,793 loaves of cannabis sativa, packed into 53 sacks and weighing a total of 1,958kg.
The customs chief further disclosed that this was not the first such interception by the command. He revealed that an earlier operation had led to the seizure of 15 sacks containing 1,021 loaves of cannabis, weighing 538kg and valued at N107 million.
In accordance with Nigerian law, Bamisaiye confirmed that the intercepted contraband would be handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further investigation and necessary legal action. He urged citizens to support security agencies by providing credible information that could help combat smuggling and other criminal activities.
The interception of the N398 million consignment marks another significant achievement in Nigeria’s ongoing war against drug trafficking. The Nigeria Customs Service has reiterated its resolve to intensify patrols, improve intelligence gathering, and implement proactive measures to curb the illegal trade of narcotics and other contraband items.
