The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Western Marine Command, has intercepted 53 sacks of cannabis sativa weighing 1,958kg, with an estimated duty-paid value of N398 million in Lagos State.
Major Seizure at Ilase Sea Beach
According to the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Lomba Benjamin, the seizure was made on Thursday, February 20, at about 11 pm at Ilase Sea Beach, approximately 200 nautical miles from the Lagos Anchorage.
The Customs Area Controller, Paul Bamisaiye, stated that officers intercepted the smugglers, who abandoned their boat and jumped into the sea in an attempt to escape arrest.
“The boat was quickly secured and brought to the office, where it was found to contain 3,793 loaves of cannabis sativa packed in 53 sacks, weighing 1,958kg. The duty-paid value of the seizure is N398 million,” he said.
Highest Seizure Under Bamisaiye’s Administration
Bamisaiye described the interception as the biggest single seizure of cannabis sativa under his tenure, emphasizing the commitment and vigilance of his officers in tackling drug smuggling.
He recalled that two months ago, the command also seized 15 sacks containing 1,021 loaves of cannabis sativa, weighing 538kg, and valued at N107 million.
Handover to NDLEA
In line with established inter-agency protocols, the seized contraband will be handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further investigation and destruction.
Bamisaiye reiterated the Nigeria Customs Service’s resolve to work closely with other security agencies in protecting the nation’s borders and combating the smuggling of illicit substances.