The Western Marine Command of the Nigeria Customs Service reported the interception of 53 sacks of cannabis sativa weighing 1,958kg with a duty-paid value of N398m in Lagos. The command’s spokesperson, Lomba Benjamin, made this known in a statement. The Customs Area Controller, Paul Bamisaiye, mentioned that the contraband was seized at Ilase Sea Beach, approximately 200 nautical miles from the Lagos Anchorage.
The smugglers attempted to escape but were subdued by the officers and fled, leaving the boat behind. Upon inspection, the boat was found to contain 3,793 loaves of cannabis sativa divided into 53 sacks, totaling 1,958kg with a duty paid value of N398m. This seizure, made around 11 pm on Thursday, was attributed to the vigilant efforts of the command’s officers.
Bamisaiye highlighted that this interception marked the largest single operational seizure of cannabis sativa during his tenure. He also recalled a previous seizure where 15 sacks of cannabis sativa weighing 538kg worth N107m were intercepted. The Customs Area Controller expressed gratitude to the Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, and the management team for their support in combating smuggling by providing essential resources and equipment.
In adherence to protocols, Bamisaiye confirmed that the confiscated drugs would be handed over to the Nigeria Drug Law Enforcement Agency. He assured continued collaboration with other law enforcement agencies to safeguard the nation’s borders.