In the same week that the Apapa port command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), and its National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) counterpart uncovered 25.5kg cocaine in a Brazilian flagged vessel, both agencies have also impounded Canadian loud, a dangerous drug substance at the premier port.
The expensive strain of cannabis were concealed inside an imported vehicle that landed in the port alongside other goods.
In a press statement at the weekend, the Public Relations Officer of the NCS’ command, Chief Superintendent Issah Sulaiman said that the illicit drugs were detected following credible intelligence provided by the NDLEA.
He said: ‘Both agencies uncovered a total of 2,374 packages of cannabis concealed in 55 bags hidden inside a 1x20ft container with No FCIU 6369526 laden with two vehicles.
“Total weight of the illicit drug is 1,187k. Both agencies, in the course of joint examination, discovered the seizure, which has been taken into the custody of the NDLEA. A breakdown of the drugs indicates that they were packed in 500 grams per sachet’.
The spokesman also quoted the NCS Area Controller, Emmanuel Oshoba as commending ‘the robust synergy between the NCS and NDLEA’, saying that the development evidenced the services’ zero tolerance for smuggling.
Referencing the earlier similar seizure during the week, Oshoba said: ‘A 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.
‘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.
‘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’.
