In a significant victory against drug trafficking, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Western Marine Command (WMC) has intercepted a staggering 1,958 kilograms of cannabis sativa, valued at N398,265,000, in a major operation along the nation’s waterways.
Announcing the bust via its official X handle, the Customs disclosed that this haul marks the largest single seizure of cannabis sativa under the leadership of the Customs Area Controller (CAC), Comptroller Paul Bamisaiye.
Speaking at a press briefing on Friday, February 21, 2025, Comptroller Bamisaiye detailed how his officers, acting on credible intelligence, intercepted the illicit consignment at Ilase Sea Beach, approximately 200 nautical miles from the Lagos anchorage.
“Our officers, while patrolling near the Bar Beach Outstation, spotted a suspicious vessel. Upon sighting the Customs patrol team, the smugglers attempted to escape. When they realized they couldn’t outrun us, they abandoned their boat and plunged into the sea,” the CAC revealed.
Despite the smugglers’ desperate escape attempt, Customs operatives swiftly secured the boat and discovered an astonishing 3,793 loaves of cannabis sativa, meticulously packed into 53 sacks.
Comptroller Bamisaiye reaffirmed the command’s unwavering commitment to eradicating illicit trade along Nigeria’s waterways, emphasizing that drug smugglers will find no safe haven under his watch.
“This seizure underscores our dedication to maintaining a smuggling-free waterway. We will continue to intensify operations to protect our borders from the infiltration of harmful substances and criminal activities,” he vowed.
In line with established procedures, the seized contraband will be handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further investigation and prosecution.
The Nigeria Customs Service urges citizens to remain vigilant and support security agencies in their fight against smuggling, reiterating its resolve to secure the nation’s waterways from criminal exploitation.
PIONEER NEWS 