
By Innocent Orok
The Western Marine Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) in its collaborative efforts to combat illicit drug trafficking along the waterways on Monday handed over 120 bags of Cannabis Sativa ( Indian Hemp) valued at N704.5million to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).
Customs Area Controller of the command, Comptroller Odaudu Salefu, disclosed that the hard drugs were intercepted in three separate operations at Jegemo Island opposite Iworo Ajido waterfront and Asipa beach along Seme borders on the 29th of November, 2023, 2nd of December, 2023, and 19th of January 2024.
He said, “in upholding the spirit of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Customs and NDLEA signed on the 4th of April 2023 to ensure synergy and collaboration in tackling illicit traffic in hard drugs along Nigeria’s entry and exit points, the Service under the leadership of the CGC, Adewale Adeniyi MFR has directed the Western Marine Command to handover 120 sacks containing 10,551 loaves of cannabis Sativa with a total value of N704,518,000.00 to NDLEA for further agency action”.
Comptroller Salefu attributed the seizure to hard work, dedication and bravery of officers, just as he emphasized the command’s commitment to working with NDLEA to apprehend those involved in the illicit drug trade.
“Today’s event is a product of the hard work, dedication and bravery of my officers who have worked with diligence and integrity to puncture the reign of smugglers of these hard drugs.
“This seizure is also a product of our command’s wide network of intelligence with suspects of these trade still at large, but the command will now work with NDLEA to effect the arrest of these wicked traders, ” he said.
He urged Nigerians to refrain from engaging in illicit cross-border trade practices, emphasizing the negative impact on the economy and the well-being of the populace.
He highlighted the dangerous effects of hard drugs on youths and called for collective responsibility in the fight against drug abuse.
Responding, the Commander of Narcotics, NDLEA, Paul Ahon, commended the Western Marine command for their collaboration.
He pledged to continue building on the partnership with the command to curb drug smuggling into the country, acknowledging the command’s consistent efforts in handing over significant exhibits to NDLEA.
Ahon said ” The Western Marine command has actually distinguished itself from other members of law enforcement agencies at sea. This is not the first time their tenacious efforts have yielded such a preponderance of exhibit that is been handed over to the agency. We highly appreciate your efforts with your men and we look forward to having more synergy in fighting drug trafficking on our waterways, ” he said.