The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have intercepted 1,187kg of Canadian Loud, a high-value strain of cannabis, at the Apapa Port – barely five days after both agencies uncovered 25.5kg of cocaine on a Brazilian-flagged vessel.
This was disclosed in a statement signed by CSC Isah Suleiman, Customs Public Relations Officer, Apapa Port Command.
According to the statement, acting on credible NDLEA intelligence, a joint examination team uncovered 2,374 sachets of the drug packed in 55 bags and concealed inside a 1×20 container (FCIU 6369526) loaded with two imported vehicles. Each sachet was reportedly weighed at 500 grams, confirming the total haul of 1.1 tonnes.
The NDLEA has since taken custody of the contraband as investigations intensify. the statement added.
Speaking on the operation, Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba, Customs Area Controller, Apapa Command, praised the seamless cooperation between the two agencies and reaffirmed Customs’ uncompromising stance against smuggling.
“Just days ago, I stated clearly that no consignment will leave this port without due checks,” he said. “Our synergy keeps us steps ahead of criminal elements. No matter the volume of trade we process, we will never compromise national security or the economy.”
Oshoba issued a stern warning to traders, importers, exporters and licensed agents: “Anyone who attempts to test our resolve this Yuletide season and beyond will face the full wrath of the law. Our officers remain eagle-eyed and fully alert.”
The Apapa Command confirmed that investigations are ongoing to identify and prosecute all those connected with the shipment.
