By Ikugbadi Oluwasegun
Officers and Men of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Tincan Island Port Command, have intercepted a large consignment of illicit drugs, including Cannabis Indica weighing 1,072kg, from Canada and India.
Adewale Adeniyi, Comptroller General of Customs (CGC), made this known during a press briefing at the Command on Friday, According to him, the seizure is a result of the ongoing collaborative efforts between the NCS and the Nigeria Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).
Giving a breakdown of the items, Adeniyi stated, “3 plastic drums concealing several packets of Cannabis Indica, 46 bags containing 2,144 packets of Cannabis Indica all weighing 1,072kg seized from 01x40ft Container No. GAOU 669921/5 imported from Canada. The approximate street value of the illicit substances is N3, 216,000,000.00”.
“877 cartons of Barcadin cough syrup with codeine- 200 bottles of 100ml per carton and 82 cartons of Really Extra Diclofenac Sodium 50mg tablets – 600 packs per carton imported from India was seized. The approximate street value of the cough syrup is N964,339,348.00. ” The CGC noted.
The Customs Boss stated that the operation highlights a troubling trend and evolving tactics of criminality and insecurity in the country.
He, however, assured of dismantling the network of perpetrators. “The NCS will continue to work closely with relevant national and international agencies to conduct operations that lead to the interception of illegal goods and the disruption of criminal networks.”
“Investigations are ongoing, and perpetrators will be made to face the full wrath of the law. Let this seizure serve as a warning to those who engage in illicit activities that the NCS remains vigilant and dedicated to protecting our society, “the CGC warned.
The CGC commended the Customs Area Controller, Tincan Island Port Command, Comptroller Dera Nnadi, and his team for the seizure, which he attributed to the dedication and hard work of the officers.
He reiterated that the collaborative synergy between NCS and its partner agencies exemplifies the effectiveness of pooling resources and intelligence, reinforcing agencies’ commitment to safeguarding the nation’s borders and protecting its citizens from the threats posed by smuggling.