Customs Seizes N26.5bn Cannabis Hidden Inside Imported Vehicles At Apapa Port
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intercepted cannabis indica valued at about ₦26.5 billion concealed inside imported vehicles at the Apapa Port in Lagos, describing the seizure as one of the largest drug interceptions recorded at the nation’s busiest seaport.
The illicit consignment was discovered during a joint inspection by Customs officers following intelligence reports and a detailed examination of containers that arrived at the port. Authorities said the narcotics had been carefully hidden inside imported vehicles in an apparent attempt to evade detection.
Speaking on the seizure, the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, said the successful operation demonstrated the agency’s commitment to protecting Nigeria’s borders and preventing criminal syndicates from using the country’s ports for illegal activities.
According to the Customs Service, the intercepted drugs have an estimated street value of ₦26.5 billion, making the seizure one of the highest-value drug busts recorded at the Apapa Port in recent years.
The Comptroller-General commended officers involved in the operation, noting that the seizure was made possible through intelligence gathering, advanced cargo profiling and improved collaboration with other security and law enforcement agencies.
He added that investigations have commenced to identify everyone connected with the shipment, including the importers, clearing agents and other members of the suspected trafficking network.
The Customs Service disclosed that the seized consignment would be handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further investigation and prosecution in line with existing laws.
Adeniyi reaffirmed the agency’s resolve to strengthen surveillance at the nation’s ports and borders, warning that Customs would continue to intensify efforts against smuggling and other forms of transnational organised crime.
He also urged stakeholders in the maritime sector to support government efforts by providing credible information capable of exposing criminal activities and safeguarding the country’s economic and national security interests.